AS that distinguished and articulate veteran sharpens his teeth and his pencil as the council prepares to set the council tax I refer of course to Frank Avenell, the pensioners champion (God bless him) could the people of Swindon give him some support.

There are many young people hard working with young families suffering from the recent rises. Mortgages, utility bills, kids clothes, rent to pay etc.

Is there a champion out there ready to step forward on your behalf? I'm sure there is. Join forces with your parents and grandparents and show that we have had enough.

The council tax should not be increased one penny until our wages catch up with the 30 per cent over the last few years it has increased. We live in a democracy that Mr Avenell and others risked their lives to maintain. That means that the majority of people must be listened to.

If your councillor ignores your wishes you have the power to vote him or her out at the local elections.

The vast majority of councillors do a good job, sometimes a thankless job, for their constituents and areas, but the point is they chose to be councillors and serve the people in the peoples best interests. Does anybody think another large rise is in our best interests? Not anybody I have spoken to.

So come on everyone, let's get behind Frank Avenell. He is, I believe over 80, but has the heart of a lion and with all our support will have the claws and teeth to go with it.

BILL WILLIAMS

Covingham