Younger people think overcrowded trains are a relatively new problem.

I left school in 1965 and started work at the Co-op, Balloon Street, Manchester.

In 1965, the trains were always late, tatty and overcrowded. It is a disgrace that, 41 years later, nothing has changed.

I didn't mind too much standing up to commute when I was younger; now, at 57, I do like to sit. Some passengers will get up for you; many will not.

I thank God I have my health and a job, and that in seven years' time I can retire and sit down a bit more.

I refer to the South-east of Great Britain. I have read and seen the new stations and rolling stock in the South-east - they are second to none.

The Bolton Council logo refers to The Family. Well, surely the whole of Great Britain should be The Family.

Just because the South-east is stinking rich, why should Bolton stations and railways make do?

I would also like to thank P Johnston who, via the Letters page, has enlightened the electorate to the obscene imbalance of the country's finances.

Perhaps in parliament there is a secret code of "Don't fuss, it is only Bolton, what do they know?".

Well, we know now, and it is time to kick up a fuss. All for one and one for all.

Mr B Jones Plodder Lane Farnworth.