AS a lover of Bolton, and all things Boltonian, it follows that I am a lifelong avid reader of our local daily newspaper.

It seems, however, that it is with increasing frequency that I am left with a feeling of great depression having reviewed an issue of The Bolton News which has reported on the latest chapters of a seemingly-endless litany of negative aspects of our society.

Recently, however, I experienced "the other side of the coin" when I had the great pleasure and privilege of representing Wingates Band at the Annual Charity Presentation Night organised by the members of Westhoughton Rotary Club. The band was amongst a total of approximately 25 beneficiaries of the Rotary Club's terrific work on behalf of local worthy causes.

Listening to these committed and hard-working individuals, all of whom undoubtedly work tirelessly, and without seeking any personal reward or kudos, was truly a heart-warming and uplifting experience.

I would like to register thanks to Westhoughton Rotary Club for making this magnificent evening possible, for their wonderful on-going work in the local community, and, perhaps most important of all, to all those individuals who profiled their diverse organisations to such telling effect.

May I also congratulate and thank Wingates Tenants' and Residents' Association for the wonderful and positive work they are doing within their local community. The children's play area and "playwall" in Holden Lea is a superb new asset for Wingates. Everyone in the band wishes to thank the Association for recognising the fact that Wingates is home to a world-famous band, by incorporating an appropriate musical theme within the design of the magnificent new ornamental gates at the entrance to the play area.

David Kaye, Trustee and Marketing/PR Manager, Wingates Band, Blackrod, Bolton