I would like to thank those people in Cinderford who voted for me in the recent County Council elections when I stood as a candidate for TUSC (Trade Unionists and Socialists against the Cuts.) I would also like to mention the people who offered to help with the campaign. Although we could not persuade people to go out and vote we were encouraged by the support we received on the street.

Though I came last, it was a low poll with less than 27 per cent of the people of Cinderford eligible to vote doing so. Many people are clearly disillusioned and feel betrayed by all three main parties and do not know who to put their trust in. This is one reason why UKIP did so well, but they were also helped by the media, we weren't.  Anyone would think they had won the election!

TUSC is a relatively new initiative, wholly backed by the RMT (Rail, Maritime and Transport) union and supported by various leading trade unionists and left groups. Only the local press ever give us any mention – the BNP fielded fewer candidates than we did nationally, but got BBC coverage. Despite a disappointing result, we do not feel defeated or dispirited and will continue to fight the cuts and campaign to build a party that represents the millions and not the millionaires.

– Claude Mickelson, Lydney.