POLICE in Bolton are gearing up for a second bank holiday weekend as well as Royal Wedding celebrations.

The extended warm spell has meant officers have had to cope with increased numbers of drinkers in the town centre.

But Ch Supt Steve Hartley, of Bolton police, said there had not been a rise in violent crime. He added: “We’ve had a number of very good weekends in terms of the weather but we've not seen a major upsurge in violence.”

After a slow start — and being named as one of the least Royalist towns with just four street parties planned — Bolton now has 14 road closures in place on Friday.

Mr Hartley added: “We have officers on duty over this weekend and are prepared to respond to anything that might arise.”

● Celebrations are being planned in Thorns Road, Astley Bridge, and Brookside Close, Bradshaw.

Sunnyside Development Group, Sunnyside Tuesday Club, Friends of Sunnyside Park and Roseneath Area Residents’ Association will also hold a wedding reception at Sunnyside Community Centre from 2pm to 4pm.

Prince William will marry Miss Middleton at Westminster Abbey at 11am tomorrow.