SIR: As life-long Labour supporters, we were always led to believe that Labour politicians have the interests of the common people at heart, no matter what their age. We are saddened then that Bolton Council have taken action to close well-run purpose-built elderly people's homes. The dedicated staff have faced sacrifices themselves with hour and wage reductions, trying to keep the homes open. We are, of course, referring to the closure of Stocks Park House, Horwich.

Being residents of Stocks Park Drive, we are in a position to comment on the everyday goings on of the home. We regularly see residents walking in and around the area, comfortable of their surroundings, having their own bit of independence. Those less able to walk on their own are assisted by the caring and dedicated staff who, don't forget, on closure of the home, will lose their jobs.

We realise that cutbacks have to be made, but this is not in the interest of the people of Horwich and there is an extremely strong feeling opposed to Bolton Labour Council over these plans.

P & A Derbyshire

Stocks Park Drive,

Horwich

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