Gannonpasssmaster makes a fair point.
I used to say: "Near Manchester," when asked where I was from, mainly because if I said: "Oldham," people would say: "Where?"
After the riots a few years back, I started saying: "Near Manchester," so people wouldn't associate me with their perceptions of Oldham following said riots.
Now I just say: "Near Manchester," and hope people don't pry further. Sad to say, but I kind of agree with Gannonpassmaster.