SHOPS and offices throughout Bolton will fall silent on Tuesday morning in a two minute silence as a mark of respect for the Queen Mother.

The Bolton Town Centre Company has advised stores to observe the silence, although many stores will receive instructions from their head offices.

Asda, has confirmed it will close all its stores on the morning of the funeral from 10.30am to 1pm so staff and customers can pay their respects.

Men's outfitters, Greenwoods, in the Market Place, will be closing for the day as a mark of respect.

A spokesman said: "It is a loss and many people forget that. Some traders are a lot more interested in making money. I think our customers will appreciate our action."

All bookmakers will close for the entire day in memory of the Queen Mother who was regarded as the patron of horse racing.

Trains due to depart at 11.30am from local stations will be delayed for two minutes and, if safe, bus drivers will be pulling over.

An inter-faith memorial service will be held at Bolton Parish Church tomorrow. The service, at 3pm, will be conducted by representatives of the Christian, Hindu and Muslim faiths.

Everyone is welcome, and among those attending will be the Mayor and Mayoress of Bolton, Cllr Kevan Helsby and Mrs Alice Kilcoyne.

The vicar of Bolton Canon Michael Williams said: "The news of the Queen Mother's death has touched everyone in our country and further afield.

"It is a deeply sad moment for us, but it is also a time for thanksgiving as we remember the enormous contribution she has made to our nation's life."

Lone piper Frank Warburton will lead the procession at the civic service, playing the Queen Mother's favourite lament Dark Island. St Paul's Cathedral in London will also be holding a service tomorrow at 10am, and churches throughout the borough will also be holding services of their own.

All English Heritage properties will close on the day of the funeral until 2pm.