THROUGH your letters page I would like to register my disgust with the ruling Labour Council.

In recent years I, like many voters, have become more disillusioned with the tribalism of party politics. Until recently I was chairman of Blackpool South Constituency Labour Party and have resigned to form the Blackpool First Alliance with other ex-supporters of the big three.

I see George Bancroft in your pages telling us that they are a listening council. It's good to see that, if nothing else, he has a sense of humour.

Take the young offenders home on St Annes Road issue -- despite overwhelming feelings against it, did they listen? NO!

Take the issue of Leys Farm -- despite overwhelming feelings against it, did they listen? NO!

After the pathetic increase in the state pension by New Labour nationally we now have the obscenity of a Labour-controlled council closing old people's homes. Once again there is overwhelming opposition and will they listen? Only if we force them to. The twopence ha'penny council is on the verge of bankruptcy and are desperate to save money anywhere they possibly can. What will be next on their desperation hit-list? Libraries, social services, schools, council houses, refuse collection or what? They have demonstrated that they will sacrifice anything to save their skins, and who will suffer? The people and businesses of Blackpool.

It is interesting to note that we have two Labour MPs and the silence from them over this issue is deafening. Perhaps they hope to avoid it during their 17 week holiday from Parliament. I challenge them to come out of their hiding places and condemn this council out of hand.

Finally, with regards to the the "executive style" council, George tells us that he is not convinced it is the right thing for our town. Well George, I can offer you some assistance on this matter. It is probably the most undemocratic change that there has ever been in local government. You were not and are still not required to have it for any other reason than a Millbank lackie thinks it is a good idea.

George, walk in to the town hall on Monday and put it on the scrap heap where it belongs.

I know that there are a number of decent councillors in Blackpool who feel every bit as frustrated as the rest of us. I would appeal to them to shed the shackles of party politics and come and join the Alliance, where they will be free at last to do the right thing for Blackpool, its citizens and its businesses.

John Finlay,

Co-chair, Blackpool First Alliance,

Faringdon Avenue,

Blackpool.