I HAVE just received a copy of the Liberal Democrats Focus' newsletter for Sudell ward, Darwen.

In it, Lib Dem councillors for the area, Paul Browne and Roy Davies, explain their reasons for voting against an extension to Bespoke Carpenters Shop, Olive Lane, Darwen. Are these people real? They say they are concerned about smoke emissions from the factory, which, I agree, aren't ideal but well within requirements of the council.

They also speak of their concern' for the amount of extra traffic if the extension goes ahead.

I know Mr Davies lives in that area and surely he is aware that an extension to the business would make negligible difference to the horrific amount of traffic in an area already being used as a rat-run to and from the motorway.

Maybe these councillors should be airing concern about this problem before kicking up a fuss about any extra traffic.

Finally, Coun Davies is forever lamenting about how Darwen is being left in the shadow of its bigger neighbour.

But how can Darwen get back on its feet again when businesses are trying to develop and no doubt increase employment only for petty-minded bureaucrats like the councillors mentioned to attempt to put the kybosh on it?

Come on councillors, what is it, Darwen first or Darwen first when it suits you or if you can get an extra vote out of it?

LEE CLAYTON, Richmond Terrace, Darwen.