BURY'S growing connections with China will be strengthened when visitors from Datong arrive for a five-day stay.

The ten-strong delegation will, on Saturday (April 12), sign a further agreement in the presence of the Chinese Consul General from Manchester, moving another step towards full Friendship City status.

Datong, in North East China, is opening its own historic steam railway to its World Heritage site at the Yungang Grottoes. It was the rail link that first brought representatives to Bury several years ago, when they came to learn from the East Lancashire Railway (ELR).

Contacts grew and led to last summer's visit by a Bury delegation to Datong.

Mr Mark Sanders, Bury Council's chief executive, said: "We were made very welcome by our Chinese hosts and we intend to reciprocate when they arrive here.

"Datong is very keen to establish cultural and educational links, some of which have already been set in place. Bearing in mind that China is the world's largest market place, there is always the opportunity for economic and business links.

"We are very excited about the possibilities."

A series of events has been arranged during the delegation's stay. These include an evening reception on April 15, hosted by the Bolton Bury Chamber of Commerce, for businesses, banks and investment agencies, which will be held at the Tai Pan restaurant in Manchester.

Mr Adrian Frost, Bury Council's partnerships and investment manager, said; "This is a great opportunity for local businesses to be involved from the start.

"Those interested in coming along should contact Joan Boardman as soon as possible on 253 5396, or email me at A.Frost@bury.gov.uk."