My first foray into local politics left me beaten by just 13 at 717 votes, and I managed fifth place in a four out of eight contest.

I did enjoy helping those others with the canvassing who were more successful and in whom I do have much faith.

I sincerely thank all the residents in the Trowbridge part of the split parish of Paxcroft Mead who solidly supported me.

When 68 per cent of the electors do not bother to vote at all, one wonders how it would have turned out if we had at least made 40 per cent. Electors seem to have lost faith in local government, however well meaning the local candidates are.

There may be one or two people who read this letter who may perhaps regret not making that extra effort to vote after all our worn shoe leather and painful leg joints.

Peter L Collins,

2003 Lib/Dem Town Council candidate.