A. WITHINGTON (Bury Times, September 10) had tried hard with his homework to discover a reasonable rate of renumeration for the work of a councillor. However, quite a few marks were dropped.

The new council structure has only been in place for a few weeks, and for many years councillors have been paid poorly for the job they are expected to do.

Councillors not only have to attend council meetings, but training and seminar sessions. They keep in touch with local community events. The amount of paperwork and correspondence has to be endured to be believed. Some councillors do three advice surgeries a month, as well as trying to be available at home or work by telephone.

They receive no telephone allowance or travel costs within the borough boundary. Councillors and their supporters have to dig deep in their own pockets to raise money for elections and newsletters to constituents.

Aspiring council candidates are judged by their suitability and proven past and present voluntary contributions to the community.

Would our critic care to stand for election as councillor next May?

COUNCILLOR J. HOWCROFT

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