ALTHOUGH I live in Wigan, I visit Bolton on many occasions - especially the Market Hall which I always find a great pleasure.

Even though the building itself is old on the inside, it is pleasant, bright, airy and spacious.

I don't think there has ever been a problem with shops and stalls being vacant, as is the case with the monstrosity that was built on our own "old market site".

It was the biggest mistake ever that Wigan Council built the new market, instead of doing as Bolton did and kept the existing building.

Bolton's Market Hall has more life and character in one brick than a new market would have in its entirety. I know you have to move with the times, but at what cost and more importantly at whose cost?

If you want upmarket shops, then build them on another site. If you come to Wigan Market Hall, you will see shop after shop vacant because the units are all overpriced and people can't afford the rents.

Our market is a disaster. Please don't make the same mistake with yours.

We moved our rugby and football grounds to Robin Park and built a Tesco on the rugby site and, while it is a very nice and convenient place to shop, yet another landmark has gone.

But as in all these cases, money as usual talks loudest and the people who really care about their town are just casualties of change.

Please listen to the people of Bolton.

Jean Barnes

Northumberland Street

Whelley

Wigan