A WHILE ago, I decided not to stand for election in 2005, the sometimes daily 40 mile-round-trips to Worcester - often followed by an evening meeting - becoming extremely tiring.

At nudging 78 and able to cope, whether or not I could in my 80s, has to be a matter of conjecture. Add to the ageing process my recently diagnosed "old-man's complaint," then increasing rheumatism in my right hand, and you will appreciate my problems.

Our Christmas Card List now exceeds 300 good people. So this year, Beryl and I have decided to make a reasonable donation to charity, rather than send Christmas Cards.

So please accept this, our very best wishes to you and yours for Christmas.

We shall read through the Christmas Card List, remembering you and our times shared.

C T WAREING, Redditch.