AT last! A Labour councillor who is willing to tell the truth about the awful state of parts of Burnley (LET, January 16).

Congratulations to Lilian Clark for having the courage to speak up about the horrendous environment produced by dirt, drugs, crime and, it must be said, the determination of some politicians to attempt to smell roses where only the foulest weeds bloom.

That Lib Dem leader Councillor Gordon Birtwistle should condemn the frankness of Councillor Clark is enough to make one blink in amazement.

I can only conclude that it is the knee-jerk reaction of a politician nettled because on this occasion the sorely needed criticism has come from a member of the party he routinely opposes.

HARRY BROOKS, Bouldsworth Road, Burnley.