SIR - In 1957 I sat as a candidate for my local Urban Council in Wirral (Cheshire).

I was duly elected but with much help from advertising on my son's pram - Vote for Griffiths - He's my Dad!

I received no expenses during the next three years.

I was not invited by any business to any advisory or consultation arrangement or recognised any fee for speaking to any organisation.

We lived sparsely on my teachers' salary, often unable to pay my mortgage promptly.

A good neighbour brought us frequentl6y a bucket of coal which I failed to declare to local officials. I was also offered a ten shilling note towards expenses in sorting out a housing problem - which I didn't accept.

My wife and I continued in our marriage after 61 years - but like many of your readers, sad and appalled at the revelations of two senior MPs and ministers, accepting large fees beyond the wildest dreams of a young man of so many years ago.

No wonder many of my contemporaries have little regard for such greed.

I trust no candidate, whatever his party, will seek my advice as to whom I should trust with my vote - not even for a £5,000 daily fee, a bucket of coal or even a ten shilling note.

ALWYN GRIFFITHS Droitwich Spa