D ROBERTS of Redvers Road, Darwen (LT, Sept 12) says that Councillor Paul Browne is the only councillor "who speaks up for every Darwener."

Unfortunately, in the case of Coun Browne's comments regarding takeaways, the exact opposite is true.

Because Coun Browne has spoken out in public about the application on Bridge Street, he has now barred himself from speaking or voting on the issue when it comes before planning committee. (Planning rules mean that councillors cannot pre-judge' applications, if they do then they must leave the room when applications are decided).

Coun Browne is fully aware of the rules, yet has had to leave the room on several occasions because he has pre-judged' applications, including an important decision in his own Sudell Ward regarding a waste recycling plant off Goosehouse Lane.

It seems Coun Browne prefers publicity to actually representing people's views.

COUNCILLOR DAVE SMITH (Sunnyhurst Ward), Woodbank Avenue, Darwen.