ON reading your recently published letter from Cllr Stanley (Citizen: April 8) I'm undecided as to whether he's presenting a potted historical piece of research or a petty, hysterical swipe at his political opponent.

If it is the former then he is somewhat lacking in detail by omitting to state that during the time that the stated contracts were endangered by lack of financial support, he, as chairman of Morecambe Tourism, had the personal responsibility for the awarding and monitoring of contracts. He should have been aware of any problems arising and if not, why not? During that time he was presumably content to draw his chairman's allowance despite the huge losses on Mr Blobby. If however the letter was, as I suspect, presented for the latter reason, namely an attempt to embarrass an election opponent, then I feel sadness that a long-respected councillor has, after many years of fair campaigning, found himself for whatever reason, resorting to gutter politics. This not only brings himself into disrepute but also reflects badly on the party he represents.

Of course this may well be an example of where Cllr Stanley is intending to present a series of such letters, opening the closets of councillors in general. If this is the case may I suggest he does it on a cross-party basis starting with his own party?

Finally now that Cllr Stanley has gone into the "muck-raking" business can I suggest that he keeps his gloves on as he might just get his fingers burned.

Name and address supplied

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