READER David Butcher offered a timely reminder of how Boltonians should help themselves to a better lifestyle in an excellent letter this week.

He was commenting on the council's plans for a Cultural Quarter and how important it is to "switch off the TV" and sample the town's already rich cultural arts' scene.

Bolton boasts a wealth of amateur operatic and dramatic societies in particular which offer a friendly welcome to new members.

We're always quick to criticise the council for its work to improve the town's cultural activities, but the long-term answer really lies with each of us actively joining in.