EVER since the southern towns of Lancashire were thrown into the odious Metropolitan County of Greater Manchester, there has been much bitterness by the people of the effected towns at this thoughtless act.

Whoever thought up the name of Greater Manchester never sought the opinions of the effected population and, 30 years on, it is bitterly rejected by the vast majority of the local people.

Across the border in Yorkshire, at least the bureaucrats had the common sense to ensure the name Yorkshire was retained in their new names, ie North & South Yorkshire and West Riding of Yorkshire.

If the administration area of Greater Manchester needs retaining, then its name should be abolished and renamed South Lancashire.

P Almond

New Barn Street

Bolton