I DO not want to enter the arena of writing letters on behalf of any political party, but I do feel compelled at this moment in time, after reading the letter "Paying more to see Stourport abandoned", from AD Adams (Shuttle/Times & News, April 4), to reply on a personal basis.

No-one cares about Stourport more than I do. I was outraged at any play area going in the district, but I will fight tooth and nail to ensure Wyre Forest District Council maintains the riverside play areas.

As far as the tax burden is concerned, I am also disturbed as I too pay Council Tax.

However, the district council has had to find a lot of money for a lot of reasons and this is not something that has happened overnight. It has been allowed to happen over the last 10-15 years - Peter has been robbed to pay Paul, and this cannot go on any longer.

Also many costs have been passed on to councils from central government, for which no funding has been granted.

Regarding the mess in Bridge Street and York Street, I agree something should be done.

The York Street situation is in the hands of the county council and has been referred to their legal department for action.

We are not sitting back doing nothing, we just do not bleat about it so much.

COUNCILLOR JUNE SALTER

Health Concern

Wyre Forest District Council

The Grove

Stourport