RAMSBOTTOM has been named as one of the best places to live in the North West.

The market town appears as number nine on the latest Sunday Times Best Places to Live list alongside Ancoats, in Manchester, and Altrincham.

Kirkby Lonsdale, in Cumbria tops the list, which is based on a wide range of factors, from employment, schools and broadband speed to culture, community spirit and local shops.

Cheshire has most entries in the region, with three towns making the list. Altrincham, last year’s winner, retains a spot on this years’ list, thanks to its vibrant market, high-achieving schools and convenient location. Knutsford - the most charming corner of the county’s Golden Triangle, which also featured last year, is joined by a Bollington, a brand-new entry. The canalside mill town’s scenic surroundings and shining community spirit make it the perfect rural yet accessible refuge.

Other featured locations include Levenshulme and Ancoats in Manchester, where there is no room for Chorlton or Didsbury, and Aigburth in Liverpool.

Helen Davies, The Sunday Times home editor said, "Finding our very own best place to live now feels more important than ever, for our wellbeing and wealth, happiness and health.

"Wherever you are on the property ladder The Sunday Times has championed 101 locations across the UK, and crowned one lucky winner, that we think is a great place to make a home.

"This year we were looking for community spirit along with convenience and culture. There is so much going on around the country, and so many great places that the choice was a hard one."

For more information on the list and the factors involved, visit: thesundaytimes.co.uk/bestplacestolive.