BOLTON does not immediately spring to mind as a cultural capital of England.

And yet the performance given by the Bolton Symphony Orchestra on Sunday evening at The Albert Hall was second to none.

Stephen Threlfall conducted with a vigour and perfect precision reminiscent of Sir Simon Rattle, and the orchestra, under the leadership of Gerald Hopkin, gave an inspired performance. The highlight of the evening was soloist Rebecca Hewes'

rendition of Elgar's Cello Concerto, which even had members of the orchestra smiling broadly in appreciation, and brought non-stop applause from an appreciative audience for three "curtain calls".

How fortunate we are to have such a wonderful and dedicated orchestra in Bolton.

Peter Davison

Wyresdale Road

Bolton