IN response to the story “Town Councils are unnecessary.” April 16. I beg to differ from Cllr Morgan’s views.

It is a significant viewpoint of the residents of Horwich, Blackrod and Westhoughton that Bolton Council has too much say in the affairs of these fiercely independent towns.

It is true that town council powers are limited when dealing with planning, waste disposal, social care and other mainstream responsibilities; however the town council does provide a valuable service to the communities they serve in terms of representation to the borough and the local management of local funding.

Horwich councillors work for free and there are many examples of excellent service to the community.

In Horwich, Cllrs Bob and Barbara Ronson, Betty McCracken, the Kilcoynes to name a few, have in the past served the town well.

Our Mayors provide a valuable community service and are part of our history and heritage. It is true that Horwich town council has experienced a downturn in public image.

Something is seriously wrong when so many by-elections are called within a short period.

Constant political bickering is getting in the way of community spirit. Town councillors have only one responsibility, to the local electorate and the youth of the town.

I call on local councillors to stop playing politics and concentrate on the job.

Peter McGeeghan Makinson Avenue Horwich