SIR,

I heartily agree with Bill Powell (Beacon 28/1). I have said many times through these pages that I am perfectly able to decide for myself where my charitable donations should go.

I remember that, in 1972, the Council precept was about £46, which covered some postage and part of the Town Clerk's phone bill. How the Council's delusions of grandeur have grown since then - at our expense!

The Council will never go willingly. However, for those young enough, with the will and energy to do so, the 1972 Local Government Act gives a step by step guide to disbanding your Council.

Maybe, if enough like-minded people got together the threat alone would be enough to rein in these profligate Napoleons.

Colin Rodgers

(Monmouth)