ROY G PHILLIPS, of Carlton Place, Teignmouth, writes:
It was a big surprise to read that Cllr Sylvia Russell has not been selected as the Conservative candidate for the forthcoming county council elections.
The choice of 'two years of local experience and youth' over '30 years of experience and maturity' makes me believe they are not really interested in winning back this seat.
Sylvia's years as a town, district and parish councillor, holding many chairmanships etc, being passed over for two years at town and district, is truly mind-boggling. Having 'opposed' her for 24 years on Teignmouth Town Council, I do not believe in politics at local level. I respect and admire all she has done and is still doing for our town.
The article Seat vacant as councillor quits, telling that Lib-Dem Cllr Alex Cross – after only two years as one of West Ward's town and district councillors – is leaving the town council only because he cannot spend the time there will rob the West Ward of the representation it needs.
If he cannot find time for one evening's meeting every two weeks then how can he find time to fully represent this ward with all the legwork and consultations the residents are entitled to expect?