I READ with interest former Cllr Johnston's letter regarding his non-attendance at the Memorial Service for the Queen Mother, who served this country until she was more than 100 as a loyal member of the Royal Family, unlike some of its later recruits, who should have been members of the acting profession.

However, as I perused the ex-councillor's letter, I realised why Bolton, and, more especially, Farnworth, which he represented, have fallen into the slum and crime-ridden state they are in at the present time.

The Queen Mother was a perfect example of good manners and how to dress when appearing in public, matters which nowadays appear to be forgotten by the present generation who are more interested in crime, drugs and bad manners.

I also wondered, after Peter Johnston had blown his own trumpet, why he was not attached to a brass band. But, of course, he would have had to be the conductor and lead the band in music more connected with a revolution than loyalty. Finally, he could have attended the Parish Church if he had been asked to sing in the choir, which is extremely professional.

Dorothy B Waters

Winifred Road, Farnworth