HOW many of us are fed up with our local council?

They take an inordinate amount of money off us in business rates, council tax, parking and planning fees. And what do we get in return? Is it value for money? If the answer is no, then do something about.

Election results since 1997 have clearly demonstrated that all is not well with the relationship between the political parties and voters. The tension between the party agenda and the public agenda is not a new one. However, the tension has become more acute over recent years.

Independent candidates represent good value for money. They have to work three times harder than Labour, Liberal or Conservatives to get elected. They have to earn and retain the confidence of the local electorate, and they hope that, as independents, they represent the "common sense" factor that is rapidly vanishing from local government.

So don't just sit on the sidelines and complain. More and more we are seeing people leaving political parties and becoming independent in order to throw off the shackles of the party whip and escape from decision-making behind closed doors.

MILNER WHITEMAN OBE