DEAR EDITOR -- When five of us decided to give up membership of the Conservative group on Bromsgrove District Council we had no idea how strong the support for our action would be and we would like to thank all who have made this known.

People of all political persuasions have expressed their approval of our Independent group's action, in wishing to vote according to our conscience and common sense rather than along rigid party lines.

Our constituents can rest assured that we will continue to put their best interests first.

On behalf of Cllrs Miss Sarah Bushby, Mrs Ann Doyle, Dr Elizabeth Lammie and Nick Psirides.

Cllr Mike Gill

Woodvale Ward

Bromsgrove District Council