I HAVE read with interest the Gazette's article regarding parish councillors and the requirement to sign this code of conduct.

I have been a member of the Grafton Parish Council for many years.

It is with great regret that I find myself unable to fill in this invidious form and sign this ridiculous document.

It is red tape gone mad. I am not going to resign but make Kennet District Council write and tell me that I am fired.

I hope Kennet has the decency to do this and does not require our own parish clerk to dismiss me.

On a recent visit to Devon, the district council there was writing on behalf of its councillors to protest at this intrusion into our lives. Would Kennet?

I should like to thank those parishioners who kindly voted for me over the years and to apologise to them for leaving them unrepresented.

It has been an honour to serve them.

SHEILA CREES

Marten

Marlborough