Following your article Election protest for Trusted Guard I wanted to write and congratulate Councillor Fred Barns on his decision to stand as an Independent candidate in the up coming local elections. I know Cllr Barns has worked very hard in Thames

Following your article "Election protest for Trusted Guard" I wanted to write and congratulate Councillor Fred Barns on his decision to stand as an Independent candidate in the up coming local elections.

I know Cllr Barns has worked very hard in Thames ward and I am sure if elected, he will continue to do so.

I feel strongly that we should, as locals, support hard working councillors such as Fred Barns if they decide to stand as Independents.

As a resident who is also 'totally disillusioned' with the Labour Party and who wants a real alternative to vote for next time, Fred will give me that.

So once again well done Fred for sticking to your principles and standing up for the local people on Thames Ward, lucky them and may the other wards be so lucky to get independent candidates too, that way we may get a council who will work for the local people.

D Murphy

Barking