Dear Sir, Local politics is full of vitriol and Arun Chandran’s letter in the Newton News two weeks ago represents the negative side of being a councillor. Frankly, how dare he? Whatever your political persuasion, the members of the Labour Party in Newton Aycliffe are decent honest people. I cannot think of a member of the public who works more tirelessly for others than John Clare; Kate Hopper and Eddy Adam in West Ward. They have taken huge strides in improving our area and I could list all the initiatives by every Newton Aycliffe County Councillor personally seen, but they would need a newspaper of their own! To accuse Labour members of corruption is a blatant lie, and all those who know me will testify as to the strength of my character. In truth, the accusations are so much more bizarre when made by a man who was reported by the Northern Echo to be under investigation by the Labour Party before he left. In my own humble view, people are tired of the circus politics and attacks. I look forward to hearing more about what independent councillors would like to actually do if re-elected and how they would intend to go about it. So far I’ve read nothing more than bluster. Cllr Peter L. Davies 41 Ashfield