I WAS most dismayed and disappointed at the turnout for the Queen Mother's memorial service at the Parish Church on Sunday, April 7.

Can so many Boltonians not be interested in going to a Sunday service for the Queen Mum.

I would have thought that as the Queen Mum had visited the town on at least two occasions, there would have been a better turnout than there was. In this case I would have expected to have seen the Parish Church packed. In the event there could not have been more than 120 people.

It even seems as though people have short memories, or they could not care less.

It was very noticeable that very few of our so called local politicians didn't turn up either, not a good way to support Cllr Helsby on what would seem to be one of his last functions as our Mayor.

I am a fervent loyalist, so the poor turnout annoyed me very much. I was proud to have taken part in this service to a great and gracious old lady who has done us all proud over the years.

I would thank all the other standard bearers who turned up to show at least some appreciation in her memory.

I carried the standard for the Bolton Artillery Association, along with the Combined Services, British Legion, Royal Air Force Association, and others.

Lastly, I would like to nominate as Rat of The Week, the idiot who wrote "good riddance" in the Book of Remembrance in Asda at Middlebrook.

Whether you are anti-monarchy or not, this sort of thing leaves a bad taste.

Rick Adamson,

Secretary,

Bolton Royal Artillery Association,

Vicarage Road,

Blackrod.