MAY I congratulate all the successful candidates in the local elections.

At the same time may I point out that they are now starting with a clean sheet, and a full 12 months in front of them, to get our finances in order, to ensure that we do not, under any circumstances, have to suffer another excessive rise in Council Tax next year.

I would also suggest that contingency measures are put in place to alleviate any nasty surprises at the end of the year due to another cut in Government funding.

If this is done, then we may even see a reduction in the amount we are being forced to pay.

RJ HOPKINS

Lobelia Close

Kidderminster