Does your council offer value for money?

Yes

I THINK Frederick Forsyth was rather harsh in his critique of local councils ( April 21).

I live in a large town and feel my authority does a fine job for its residents under what must be very trying circumstances.

For example, every day at about 5am a street- sweeping mini van passes my home ensuring that when I leave the house at 8am I’m not dodging discarded crisp packets and empty drinks cans.

And on the occasions I have needed to ring the council, the calls have always been handled well and efficiently. Alan Dunn, Stockport, Cheshire

No

HEAR hear, Mr Forsyth. The list of gripes I have with my local council seems to be getting longer by the week.

First up, they boast two fantastic parks on the fringe of the town centre but deny dogs entry, forcing owners to trudge the busy streets with their hounds instead.

Secondly they have the cheek to ask for an additional 30- odd quid to collect garden waste.

I find this demand insulting in the extreme, especially given that there are council officials out there on more than Theresa May. What is the world coming to?

Barry Ford, Burnley, Lancs