FOLLOWING a recent letter from Mr Ralph Perry criticising both our district and town councils, I also have issues with both organisations.

Almost 1,400 dwellings are to be dumped on Lydney to enable the district council to fill the shortfall in their Local plan rather than benefit Lydney.

I was also incensed at the Town Council's financial mis-management regarding the previous town clerk situations, resulting in the increase in precept. (Watch out for the next year's levy!).

However I have attended four council meetings since the recent elections, asking searching questions on various matters, and have been treated with the utmost courtesy and respect whilst being openly critical on various points. Investigations by the auditors into financial management of previous councils are ongoing, but systems and protocols introduced recently will ensure that such events as mentioned above will not be repeated.

At one of the meetings I was the only member of the public in attendance, and I do not remember Mr Perry speaking or attending the planning enquiries re the Lydney development proposed by Robert Hitchins or indeed recent town council meetings.

Next to a Draguno rifle, the pen is possibly the sniper's most powerful weapon, but, come on, if you have issues, attend a council meeting and address them in open forum. It might be of benefit to the whole community, and if nothing else you will be better informed.

It is also worth remembering that "ordinary people" make up our town council, giving up significant amounts of their time to do their best for the community, and should be respected for their commitment.

– Brian Pearman, Bracken Close, Lydney.