I READ with dismay the incredible decision of the council planners to refuse permission for Fred Dibnah's "Victorian" mine.

Like many other local people, I know that in reality the land that Fred owns is actually out of sight to virtually everyone.

The building work done by Fred in the past is of a superb standard, and he has never produced anything that isn't of the very highest standard. His bricklaying cannot be matched by anyone locally, his carpentry is superb, he is unique and Bolton needs him.

The comments of one of his neighbours about the amateurism of his drawings for the winding house, demonstrate clearly that such a person has absolutely no appreciation of truly beautiful drawings or the masterpiece that Fred would doubtlessly produce.

Why is it that Bolton has a reputation for not recognising some of the best assets it has.

As an authority Bolton notoriously failed to recognise Leverhulme and snubbed him - Bolton's loss was to the advantage of Liverpool.

They had one of the best constructed canals in the country - but they blew up the aqueducts.

Wake up Bolton before it's too late.

Many more enlightened councils would be able to see beyond the objections of a handful of people, to the benefits of Fred's scheme for Bolton and the region.

(Name and address supplied)