CHILDLINE North West has said a big "thank you" to the Bury community which helped the charity raise £6,500 during its six-month local appeal.

The Childline Bolton and Bury Appeal, supported by Bolton and Bury Chamber, took place in both towns. The charity will be able to counsel more than 200 local children as a direct result of the amount raised.

Gaynor Lawton, corporate fundraiser for Childline North West, said: "We are thrilled with the response from these two communities, who have shown great enthusiasm.

"We hope the fundraising will continue. Foundations have already been laid for a Bolton and Bury Appeal Group accepting a challenge to generate £10,000 in 2001."

The Bolton and Bury Appeal Group is keen to draw on the skills and experience of members of the local community to become representatives of Childline and help youngsters from Bury and Bolton.

Kay Gregson, head of membership of Bolton and Bury Chamber which helped to kick-start the Appeal Group, said: "We are delighted to be involved with this new and exciting venture with Childline and hope that many more people will join us."