SIR,

I have been following Mathew's work for more than 10 years now as a journalist and campaigner throughout Europe.

Indeed, I taught with him in Eastern Europe many years ago. When I first heard that he had taken up his interest in politics I was thoroughly thrilled.

I have been nothing but disappointed with politics over the years, with politicians growing more tenuous and disloyal, their motives seemingly lost in a misty haze of broken promises and lies.

So it fills me with absolute joy to hear that Mathew has been selected by the Welsh Labour Party as a candidate for the county council elections on 3rd May.

I haven't met anybody as passionate, sincere and thoroughly engaging. He generally cares about peoples needs and wants, is always willing to listen to peoples problems and can do great things in this town.

He has my unconditional support in his future endeavours and I eagerly advise people to support his campaign.

A true friend to the people of Monmouth, who has the mind to change things for the better.

Darren Douglas

(Monmouth)