THOUGH now classed as a 90-year-old "old timer", but still young at heart, I have followed with interest and admiration the hard work, zeal and determination of young Joe Cowie, in doing so much to persuade Bolton Council to eventually build a skate park for the young followers of the sport.

His efforts have been so commendable, and I have no hesitation in saying that these types of youngsters are needed to ensure them becoming good and successful citizens of the future for this great town of ours.

May I suggest that at the "official opening" (I hope there will be one) of the skatepark, that to honour his hard work, it should be named "The Joe Cowie Skatepark", and that this name appears prominently on the entrance notice board or plaque to the skatepark.

Furthermore, might I also suggest that the serving Mayor of Bolton performs the "ceremony" at the opening. Perhaps the Mayor, wearing his chain of office, might be persuaded (after some tuition by young Joe Cowie) to skateboard a short distance to form part of the opening ceremony. It would be a little highlight to add to the story and history of Bolton.

I am sure that Joe's efforts in managing to sway Bolton Council into opening the skatepark is worthy of a spot on our northern television news, but then, perhaps, I am hoping for too much.

Albert Winstanley Bradshaw Brow Bradshaw