I left St Helens in 1978 and moved to London.

When ever I was asked where I came from I would stand tall and puff out my chest and proudly state "I'm from St Helens".

I have recently moved back to my home town and I am now ashamed to say that I am from this once proud town.

The place is a disgrace with litter strewn all over the streets and businesses closed down; Beechams, United Glass Rockware to name a few.

And the people have changed too. They now seem to be rude and ill-mannered, I've actually seen people going to the shops in their pyjamas. Children who need their mouths washing out with soap due to the foul and abusive language they use. The next time I leave it certainly won't be with a heavy heart.

Sam Crooks,

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