I HAVE read in detail, Beverley Greenberg's report in the BEN page nine dated Thursday, February 18, 1999, and I have to say the report in no way represents the facts of what actually happened at the meeting of the residents.

The meeting was called because local people who live in and around the Manor Court Elderly Persons Home, were concerned that the supposed use of the vacant properties adjacent to the home would be used to house "delinquent children".

Cllr Morris at all times during this meeting stated that Bolton Council had a responsibility and duty to look after youngsters who had either lost a parent or who become dependent on the Council for many other reasons, to find either foster or other short or long term solutions.

I have to agree with Cllr Morris that this is a major problem and that all people in Bolton should not attempt to say "not at my door" but I have to concede that the proposed location next to Manor Court is in my view a wrong decision. This was said at the meeting by me and supported by my ward colleague, Cllr Butterworth. In fact we both said we would 100pc back the residents' campaign.

The BEN should have reported the facts as occurred:

i.e. The Labour Councillor for Bradshaw, Paul Fitzpatrick chaired the meeting and gave an assurance that he and Cllr Butterworth would oppose any intention to locate the home as what was seemingly proposed.

And that Cllr Morris was totally honest and professional in his corporate role as Chairman of Social Services to protect the children of Bolton.

Cllr Paul Fitzpatrick

Bradshaw Ward

Editor's note: The BEN's report was spot on. The only things we did not include were the names of Cllrs Fitzpatrick and Butterworth. The residents came to us to voice their concerns and it was our initial article which prompted the discussion.

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