ON reading your report (August 9) on Councillor Kevin Scarlett's conviction for drink-driving, I noted how quickly his political opponents have been to call for his resignation as a councillor.

Coun Scarlett has faithfully served the electorate to the best of his ability for the past seven years and contributed a large part of his private life to public service by trying to build a more prosperous and up-to-date Radcliffe and Bury.

That political opponents should so readily and scathingly demand his resignation by adopting a high moral stance merely demonstrates their eagerness to take political advantage of an unfortunate situation.

To those who cannot wait to throw the first stone after this admitted lapse, I would say please remember and acknowledge the very important and hard-working contribution to public life that Coun Scarlett has made in the past and, I believe, will continue to make in the future.

DEREK SANDFORD,

constituent.