FESTIVE lights in Bolton's Victoria Square will be doing more than simply boosting seasonal spirit this year.

One of the Christmas trees will be adorned with lights to aid funds for Bolton Hospice by thousands of pounds.

The hospice's Light Up A Life appeal has become a popular way to celebrate the festive season by dedicating individual tree lights. Last year, the scheme raised £13,325 for the hospice off Chorley New Road.

The lights adorn a tree in the Bolton Parish Church grounds and this year, Bolton Council has given the hospice the go-ahead to have an extra tree, in Victoria Square.

Local people can dedicate a symbolic light to a friend or relative to sparkle until Twelfth Night.

The Victoria Square lights will be switched on with the main festive lights on November 21.

The lights at Bolton Parish Church will be illuminated by the Mayor of Bolton, Cllr John Walsh, at a ceremony on Wednesday, December 11, at 7pm.

A short dedication service will feature music and singing by children from St Osmond's School and Turton Training Choir.

A list of names of those who have been remembered in the hospice appeal will also be put in the book of dedications in the prayer and reflection room at the hospice.