COMMENTING on traffic-calming in Hyndburn, J Norris (Letters, August 15) asked if the elected powers were immune to public opinion and the feelings they have thrust on the community. The answer to that is they just don't care.

For years now, the local Tories have been telling the public that Hyndburn is run by a dictatorial leader. This point was backed up only recently by the fact that a Labour councillor is standing down next May. One reason for his decision was that he said his hands were tied and that only the chosen few (the dictators) were allowed to express opinions, the others were just there to vote as they are told.

It is hardly surprising that this is happening when out of four councillors for Rishton two live on the other side of the borough; they are there for their votes and not for the people of Rishton.

One has only to look at Accrington town centre to see the damage that the Labour-controlled council has done over the last few years. Compared with years ago, the market is like a ghost town; stalls are unfilled and trade has suffered tremendously, because these people won't listen.

The sale of the boroughs' assets has been well documented over the past 12 months, but it is hardly surprising that these things have happened when the council is run by a dictator like George Slynn.

When any person in public life begins to think that they are bigger than the borough and ride rough-shod over all and sundry, it's time for them to go.

Next May, the people of Hyndburn have the chance to redress the balance on the council, and by putting George Slynn out to grass, to coin a phrase "Things can only get better" and will when this man is shown the door.

JOHN D FARRER, Mallard Place, Oswaldtwistle.

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