[Acrylic-bob]

I agree that Blackpool certainly does have an image problem. But, as with most things, it is what we have made it. Blackpool traders are not much different than traders anywhere else and if stuff like blow up dolls and vibrators did not sell they would not be in the shops.

Maybe if Parliament gets off its backside and pushes through the casino proposal things will change for the better, the plans that I have seen are certainly very impressive.

The area does seem to have more than its fair share of pensioners and benefit claimants, who are not very economically active, and I suppose that they represent a considerable obstacle in any attempt at regeneration. Still it's good that North West Water have been forced to clean their act up, the beach has definately improved in recent years. The EU is good for some things.