I WAS disgusted to hear on the national news that Sloggi has been forced by the Advertising Standards Authority to remove an advertisement in Bury, showing three scantily-clad ladies, because it might offend those attending a nearby place of worship for Muslims.

I was equally disgusted to read that Rochdale Council was threatening local taxi drivers with removal of their licences if they fly the flag of St George on their cabs, and that Bury MBC had also confirmed that such a practice was in breach of local licensing laws (although they are not applying any ban).

Such divisive acts are, in my opinion, racist.

Can I remind those in the ASA, and particularly my elected councillors, that 60 years ago many young men and women died because they believed England should be free; free for people to express themselves, free to display a pride in their country. The song "There'll always be an England" poses the question: " . . . if England means as much to you as England means to me".

I would suggest that many of those who gave their lives so unselfishly could not foresee that we would surrender national pride so easily. Is it any wonder that the British National Party is gaining ground and votes everywhere, because they are the only party suggesting pride in our nation, albeit from an extreme far-right stance.

This is my country and I will always be proud to display my love for my country and its heritage. The only pity is that we only tend to do this when the football team is taking part in a major competition. We should be displaying this pride every single day.

ROGER BOWDEN,

Ripon Hall Avenue,

Ramsbottom.