GEOFF Hurst's goal in the 1966 World Cup final and commentator Kenneth Wolstenholme's well known assessment "They think it's all over, it is now," was always destined to be the outcome of England's bid to stage the 2006 World Cup -- more so after the invading, lunatic fringe had blackened our country's name in Euro 2000.
But was it their actions that gave Germany the honour? I believe not.
The dealings between the various countries made the whole contest a farce -- gifts, backhanders, hotels, flights, anything to sway officials, were offered quite openly.
Stars and ex-footballers were sent on missions to publicise our bid, but it seemed surplus to requirements when big business and even prime ministers got involved.
A new system of choosing a host nation must be found if we are to avoid another shambles.
K SOWERBUTTS (Mr), Southwood Drive, Baxenden.
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