I READ the article about the proposed later opening hours for shops in Bolton town centre.

I am against this because of these reasons. Why do we have to follow USA custom? This country is not a sheep - it is a country of its own and should stick to what we are used to. It has its own heritage.

I work flexi-hours, and it helps on occasions to shop before going to work. If the shops were to open at 11am, what use is flexi-time? You might as well waste half a day's annual leave.

What about the shop assistants? They should not be expected to work longer hours. This erodes into family life.

Some people, especially the elderly, do not like being out late. Later opening hours won't be of use to them.

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