A SPECTACULAR procession is due to take place to mark the appointment of the new Mayor of Bolton.

The Mayor's Parade is one of the highlights of the year, bringing local people together to celebrate the annual civic tradition.

On Sunday, the borough's new Mayor, Cllr Hilary Fairclough, will lead the colourful parade, and she has invited people from across the town to join her.

Cllr Fairclough said: “I am very proud to take on the role as Bolton Mayor and I am greatly looking forward to taking part in civic Sunday.

“I would love for as many people as possible to come along for what I’m sure will be a special occasion.”

The parade will be commanded by the 216 Battery RA (V) — The Bolton Artillery — and the town's local Territorial Army (TA) unit, who will be joined by other groups and organisations.

Cllr Fairclough will walk out onto the Town Hall steps at about 2.30pm, accompanied by other civic dignitaries, to meet the parade.

The procession will then set off from Victoria Square, weaving its way through the town centre via Hotel Street, Mealhouse Lane, Deansgate and Churchgate, before arriving at Bolton Parish Church.

A church service, which is also open to members of the public, will be held at 3pm.

Cllr Hilary Fairclough has received the chains of office from former Mayor of Bolton, Councillor Elaine Sherrington.