I have only met Mike Meredith-Edwards a few times and I have always had the greatest respect for the letters he has written, but I do take issue with his remarks that Andrew Gardiner is the only true Independent. Andrew is a gentleman and does a lot of good.
I look upon myself as a true Independent. I do not think politics should come into local issues and is doing the Forest of Dean more harm than good. Having been a parish councillor for 14 years I was approached by Mr George Read to put up for election as an Independent. I won my seat by a very good majority. I like to think this was because of my achievements as an individual in my ward as a parish councillor and not because of my political views.
Some may cross the floor again but I know most are more than happy because they have the freedom of speech since coming over to the Independents. Norman Stephens has always been there to help me since I have become a district councillor and has told me as an Independent we have no-one to answer to. I know he is well respected for his work.
I am more interested in looking out for the people that voted for me and, since the cabinet system has come in, this is basically what I do.
I also agree with Mike, Daphne Pearson writes a lot of sense. I think more time should be used in doing the job we were voted to do and less time spent in trivial differences. – David East, district councillor for Longhope and Blaisdon.