THE words "sour grapes" came to my mind after reading Councillor Denham's views on why New Labour lost control of Worcester City Council. (You Say, October 4).

The real reason why New Labour are now in opposition and not in control is because they lost five seats in the 2000 local elections, four to the Tories and one to the Independents.

It was the good people of Worcester who said "no" to New Labour, not just your fellow councillors.

However, in your ward, Councillor Denham, New Labour could put up a cardboard cut-out of Mickey Mouse and he would be elected.

COLIN LAYLAND, Worcester.