DID you know that people in Radcliffe had been "invited" to carry the Queen's baton on its final stages to the Commonwealth Games in Manchester? I didn't.

Do you know who will be carrying the baton, how they were chosen, and by whom? I don't.

Did you know that there is a position of Commonwealth Games co-ordinator within the metro area, whose involvement has been minimal, but who signed a document "Principles of Co-operation" and yet has no control over who carries the baton in our area? I do now.

Did you know that the baton has been around the world in the hands of dignitaries, nominated people, athletes and special people rewarded for their services to sport? Were you included?

And did you know that with all the Radcliffe athletes and deserving people willing to carry, run, or even walk with the Queen's baton, not one will be doing so on its leg from Bolton to Bury. I understand it is going by car. Yes, by car!

Along with my colleagues on the Radcliffe Sports Advisory Council, I find this an incredible snub to the sporting people of Radcliffe, who are being denied what is a chance in a lifetime.

You wouldn't think we belonged to Bury Metro, would you?

C. JONES,

Radcliffe Ssports

Advisory Council.