I READ with interest in the Bolton Evening News of December 31, the article regarding "show can't go on for concerts losing cash", and was wondering if Cllr Williamson was aware of the excellent Bolton Symphony Orchestra, particularly when he suggests "he is keen to attract a top professional orchestra like the Halle."

Bolton is fortunate to have some of the best amateur artistic organisations in the country, and Bolton Symphony Orchestra (BSO) provides some of the best live orchestral music outside of Manchester (some would say as good as). Yet we struggle to get any real recognition from either the local authority (although this is better than it was) or from the Bolton Evening News.

We have just appointed Robert Chasey from the BBC Philharmonic Orchestra as our new Artistic Director for 2003.

Maybe Cllr Williamson would like to come along to one of our concerts during 2003, to see for himself what high standards of orchestral performance exist in the borough. Given the appropriate support, BSO are more than capable of staging performances that include world class performers.

With our new artistic director, and the excellent Bolton Symphony Orchestra, Bolton has the opportunity to continue to be the centre of excellence for amateur music in the country.

Come on, BMBC and Bolton Evening News, join in and let's have more action and less talk and see what we are doing. Visit our website on www.boltonsymphony.org.uk

David Greenhalgh

BSO Administrator