MAYOR Williams and his profligate pals should take no comfort whatsoever from the result of the recent vote on the town council's performance (Malvern Gazette, May 4).

As a 20% turnout is about average for local council elections, the 15% turn out for the referendum cannot simply be dismissed. Remember, no poll cards were sent out. The claim by the mayor that 20,000 voters are satisfied with the council does not stand up. The council did not win this vote. The people of Malvern lost it through their apathy. One could say, that as a result, they have the council they deserve.

Having said that, the only honourable action this council can now take is to RESIGN. They can stand for re-election, if they are all returned, they will have received a mandate from the electors and can proceed with a clear conscience.

M G JACKSON, Alexandra Road, Malvern.