RAMSBOTTOM has been listed as one of the best places to live in Britain by the The Sunday Times.

The town has been named on a list of 12 thriving places to live in the North West.

It has been praised for its independent restaurants in a 'handsome town centre of rugged stone'.

The list, carried out in association with Habito, assesses a wide range of factors, from jobs, schools and broadband speed to culture, community spirit and local shops.

Ramsbottom Cllr Robert Hodkinson told the Bury Times that the recognition was well-deserved.

He said: "I have lived in Ramsbottom for 30 years and I have seen it go from strength to strength.

"We have a vibrant town centre, good schools and a strong community spirit. We are surrounded by beautiful countryside and have Nuttall Park which is a popular destination for all ages.

"The numerous events throughout the year, including Chocolate Festival, ELR 1940’s weekend, Ramsbottom Music Festival to name a few, bring in visitors from far and wide.

"The award-winning East Lancashire Railway has strengthened Ramsbottom’s offer as a tourist destination supported by independent retailers, eateries pubs and bars."

Meanwhile, Altrincham, in Cheshire was named as the best place to live in the North West.

To rank the locations statistics were used along with knowledge from The Sunday Times’s expert panel.

Helen Davies, The Sunday Times Home editor, said: "There is much to celebrate, and Britain is scattered with thriving towns and villages, cool cities and suburbs, though people may be surprised how many traditional favourites haven’t made the cut in 2018.”

The full Sunday Times Best Places to Live guide will be published on Sunday.