SINCE the May local elections, Blackburn Tories have demonstrated their pathetic lack of political weight -- firstly by remarks on the pound (Letters, May 22), which most certainly will not help Blackburn's exporters, and secondly by their appeal for a soccer star -- or the like -- to fight Jack Straw.

If the Tories really want to defeat Mr Straw they should stand aside and support the Liberal Democrats who have shown that they can win seats in the inner wards of the borough.

However, while the Tories are dreaming in cloud cuckoo land, we are trying to sort out the complaints of our electors.

COUNCILLOR EDMUND CRITCHLEY, Merlin Road, Blackburn.