I HAVE endured a tirade of abuse from my Tory counterparts over the last few months.

Up until now I chose not to engage with them in this ridiculous campaign to rubbish my name as a councillor and instead have continued to focus my efforts into ensuring that residents' views in Coleview, Covingham and Nythe are represented in the council, a role which will remain my priority.

However, I am aware that to not speak up may look like there is some credence in what the Tories say I can assure you that there isn't.

I have worked tirelessly for my ward and with regards to the issue in question here the regeneration of Covingham shops I am working hard to make this a priority of the council.

I first raised this issue last summer with council officers and have consistently been told that there is no money for this end it is the Tory administration that makes such decisions and I will continue to campaign to make the Tories listen to, and deliver for, the residents of this ward.

From the signatures I have collected already, residents want to see the long-term regeneration of the area this has neither been delivered nor is in the pipeline.

I'm afraid Coun Heenan and his Tory colleagues need to realise you need a lot more than a dustpan and brush to meet this end.

Coun M DILLEY.

Oxford Road, Stratton