AS a trader on the Saturday market I attended the ECDC meeting on February 23 where the planned market cuts were the main item on the agenda. The council chamber was full to capacity, such is the strength of local feeling on this issue. This was an oppor

AS a trader on the Saturday market I attended the ECDC meeting on February 23 where the planned market cuts were the main item on the agenda.

The council chamber was full to capacity, such is the strength of local feeling on this issue.

This was an opportunity for traders and the general public to present questions to our local councillors.

My reason for writing is to register my disgust ant the behaviour of a minority of our local councillors at this meeting.

Mick Stimson, a market trader was given the microphone to present an overview of the traders situation and concerns to accompany the petition presented to the council.

As soon as he started to speak councillor Allyson Broadhurst started to smirk and then begin a whispered conversation with councillors Ashton and Bradbury.

They sat in Mr Stimsons line of vision, it was extremely distracting, would love to know what was so amusing to them. This behaviour was at the least unprofessional and at worst intimidating and unforgivably rude.

It took great restraint on my part not to raise my hand and draw the chairman's attention to their behaviour.

When Councillor Brian Ashton got up and lectured us at length on the general state of the economy and the need for us all to make sacrifices in the wake of this, we all gave him our full attention, a courtesy that was not afforded to Mr Stimson.

I have no political affinity with any party. I only cast a vote because women died for the right to do so. My code for life is common sense, fair mindedness and good manners.

These traits were displayed fully by councillors Ian Allen, Pauline Wilson and Sheila and Jeremy Friend-Smith amongst others.

Notable acclaim to Sheila Friend-Smith for turning around to face the public and addressing us directly.

With any public office comes responsibility, certain local councillors could do well to reflect on that, their behaviour should be exemplary.

Councillor Broadhurst would benefit from making a study of Sheila Friend-Smith, she could learn a lot.

Best wishes to Councillor Fred Brown, trust he has recovered from his laryngitis, only reason I can imagine for his total lack of voice at the meeting.

ANNIE SHACKLETON

Town Street

Upwell