A GROUP of teenagers is looking for support in restoring a Bolton park to its former glory.

Students aged between 16 and 18-years-old taking part in a Lifeskills course at Michaeljohn Training Limited in Lever Street are keen to brighten-up Moss Bank Park after their tutor took them there for a day out.

Tutor Julie Owens, who teaches the "Learning Gateway" programme for teenagers who might have experienced problems when they were in school and slipped through the educational net, was thrilled the pupils took such an interest in the park.

She said: "I took them to the park and as we were walking around I hoped they might pick-up on some of the problems there and they did do without any prompting.

"These students have really taken to the idea of doing something practical to make the park suitable for families.

"So much so, that they wanted to write to the council and suggest how the park can be improved.''

The six teenagers on the 15-week course have written to Bolton Council listing the problems they spotted in the park as well as suggesting several solutions.

Main problems according to the group were the lack of wildlife, ponds, seating areas and litter bins.

They suggested the park would appeal to families if money was invested in such activities as canoeing, kayaking, rafting and sailing.

The group also recommended fishing competitions and selling fishing permits as a way of raising the cash which could then be used to establish all the water activities as well as a nature trail, youth worker and regular open air concerts for all ages.

Julie added: "I was really pleased they were so motivated and we just wish we could get the people of Bolton and especially the Council to support us.''

The youngsters, several of whom have enjoyed the course so much that they have gone onto study at NVQ level, are now eagerly awaiting a response from the Council's Parks Department.

Nobody from Bolton Council was available for comment.