I am responding with deep concern to the article “Go on, stand up and be counted” of April 5, in which members of the newly formed group, Better Swindon, were instructed by retiring Councillor Mike Bawden to get themselves elected to the council if they wanted to achieve anything. Sadly, much of Mike’s rhetoric was derogatory.

In my long experience I have encountered so many worthy people in our town who have not needed to become a councillor to achieve so much that is crucial and positive for the well being, development and social standing of Swindon.

Many highly intelligent and capable people view the council as a political death trap because once elected they are all too often silenced and put down by a small core wielding dictatorship, who themselves fall short of expectations.

Mercifully, all the hype for city status has rested awhile. The priority is for Swindon to become a town of excellence and preserve the beautiful, irreplaceable countryside that is nourishing to the heart and soul and absolutely vital for the health and happiness of future generations.

The Better Swindon group is putting people before politics with commitment, strength and heartfelt passion to raise the profile of our town and the cultural needs of us all.

Everybody’s life is precious and its quality must be considered abreast of our economic progress. Time is of the essence for a council that renders openness and mutual respect.

Mary Ratcliffe, Old Town, Swindon