I WAS interested to read about Cllr Ted Sherrell talking of the lack of interest in co-option to the Tavistock South West seat on the Town Council (Times, November 7).

I totally agree with his comments and sentiments on this issue, however I must correct Cllr Sherrell.  

As some of your readers will know, I stood in the summer by-election for the Tavistock North seat.  Notwithstanding my second place to a very worthy candidate, I was enthused by fellow residents to stand for co-option in the South West ward.  After completing the paperwork, I was summoned to the full council meeting in September to give a short presentation.  Cllr Sherrell gave his apologies for the meeting, so was maybe unaware of the events.  

Myself and Colin Rogers (Conservative) put ourselves forward for the two vacant South West seats — it is the sitting councillors who choose who they want to represent the people.  

Mr Rogers was selected, however I was not.  Now, ask yourselves why?  Maybe it was my age — I am five years younger than Cllr Ewings and if selected it would have made me the youngest councillor!  Or my active involvement in the Meadows Makeover Group?  Or my politics, or lack of them I should say, for I do not belong to a political party, nor do I believe local councils should be a political battleground.

So I say to the town councillors, there are people out there willing to give their time, knowledge and commitment for the benefit of fellow residents in the town, but it is down to YOU to approve the co-option.

Gareth Dempster

Montgomery Drive

Tavistock