FOLLOWING on readers' views for, but mainly against, our town of Bolton, I still believe we have a great town and a heritage which is worth striving for.

Countless citizens of the borough are dependent and reliant on Bolton for shopping and other activities -- we just have to get on with it. Several stores and competitive retail outlets have survived, despite recent closures. Long may they do so, serving this town to the best of their abilities.

Take a look around Bolton, observe its fine architecture, in particular the Town Hall and Le Mans Crescent, the curve of Civic buildings, which includes the Central Library, Museum and Art Gallery. On the Town Hall Square stands our beautiful War Memorial. We have a magnificent Parish Church, its tall tower can be seen for miles around. Holy Trinity is yet another notable landmark, the list is endless ... From certain places around Bolton, you catch a glimpse of the surrounding moorland hills, perhaps we take them for granted in the general scheme of things.

Admittedly, there are eyesores and dilapidated areas about the town. Our one and only remaining town-centre cinema, The Odeon, a classic in Art Deco style, badly needs a face-lift, and should become a listed building -- if it isn't one already. Most of our Public Parks have become neglected, and, should they ever be restored to their former glory, it is up to us, the users, to respect these places and keep them litter-free.

Car parking charges are a constant source of worry for motorists coming into Bolton -- it is to be hoped that there will be a long-term solution to the problem.

It is easy to become doom-laden and pessimistic about our town, but Bolton is still the most convenient choice for a large majority of shoppers. We may never achieve 'city' status, but does this really matter, after all?

"Better build up BOLTON" should be the aim of all Boltonians who are really concerned about their town. So "Buy it in BOLTON" if you can!

Mrs Freda Rothwell

Halliwell

Bolton