Those who like to put on their walking boots and waterproofs before walking on the moors above Bolton may feel much safer as they do so, after the town's mountain rescue team took delivery of new equipment.

It is getting three new Land Rovers, a team bus and a search and rescue boat, paid for with donations from local voluntary bodies.

An official handover and blessing of the new vehicles will take place on May 3rd, with attendees including donors such as East Lancashire Mark Masons, who gave £40,000, as well as the Edgworth Real Ale Festival Committee, who gave £12,000.

Those heading for the hills may find having good boots and waterproofs reduces the chances of accidents or cases of exposure, making it less likely they will need help from Mountain Rescue teams.

Walking destinations in the Bolton area include Winter Hill above Horwich, which hosts a large TV mast.