On the road to mercy in Bolton town centre

Bolton residents passing through Deansgate were invited on board the Mercy Bus to talk to priests for confession, prayer, or a blessing.

The visit is a Diocese of Salford venture to reach out to the community around the North West as part of the Catholic Church's Year of Mercy.

Attending the event, which is part of a tour of the North-West, was Bishop of Salford, John Arnold.

He said: "It is surprisingly good how many people are showing interest. I'm very optimistic about people's reaction, there seems to be great enthusiasm.

"The first day of the tour we had over hundred people getting on board but I think we will get many more than that today.

"We feel as lot of people have drifted away from church and faith and are maybe embarrassed about coming back to it, so we have come to them.

"People are surprised at their own interest in it. It certainly is making a statement."

The large bus, adorned with logos, welcomes people from across the community on board.

Inside it looks like any normal bus with the exception of three or four priest ready to welcome anyone who ventured on board and speak with them in confidence.

A party of volunteers also hit the streets to distribute free gifts blessed by Pope Francis to passers-by and there was live music by a band.

Amongst those on board will be Father Frankie Mulgrew, the son of TV comic Jimmy Cricket, and a former stand-up comedian.

Fr Frankie travelled over to Rome where he received a blessing from Pope Francis for the Mercy Bus project, after which the Holy Father had his picture taken with the design of the Bus.

For the Year of Mercy the Pope wants Catholics to make a special effort to witness to their faith and in service to their local communities.

Fr Frankie added: "If people don't know where to find hope and encouragement, we are bring it to them. We are trying to bring people more hope, peace and joy.

"People seem to be very positive when they are coming off the bus and that is a great thing!"