A TENBURY resident says he feels extremely cheated that his complaints of maladministration against Tenbury Town Council have been rejected by the new mayor, Councillor Janice Gluyas.

Anthony Reeve from Kyrewood, told the Advertiser: "I brought these complaints and expected the courtesy of a serious discussion because this dispute is poisoning the town."

The complaints stem from an on-going row over tennis club fees and Mr Reeve claims previous mayor, Councillor Keith Griffiths, has primary responsibility in his role as chairman of the confidential sessions which dealt with the issue and his direction of the correspondence work of the town clerk.

Mr Reeve's letter, which was read out at the first meeting of the new Tenbury Town Council on Monday, centres on an outstanding payment of £108 rent by Tenbury Tennis Club.

His letter claimed there was a lack of documentary evidence to justify invoices and he was concerned at the non-issue of statements or warning letters. He was also concerned at a decision to go to the small claims court being shelved, despite a donation to cover costs, and the effect the matter was having on the council's income.

Councillor Griffiths referred to a reply sent to Mr Reeve following his letter. He said: "The formal complaint of maladministration has been noted and I have to inform you that all decisions have been democratically voted upon by the whole of the town council and the mayor is only one member."

The row, which has been going on for almost 12 months, brought a new proposal from Councillor George Price.

He said: "To settle the matter the council should enter into fresh discussions on a new rental agreement."

This proposal was, however, rejected as was a request from the four newly-elected town councillors to be allowed to read relevant documentation referring to the matter.

Halting any further discussion on the matter, Councillor Gluyas said: "There has been no maladministration. It has all been properly done through the full council. The issue is therefore closed and we must move on."

Mr Reeve said he was not happy with the decision.

"I am boiling with rage and wait to see how the council reply to these complaints if they haven't been discussed," he said.

"According to the National Association of Local Councils code of conduct for dealing with complaints, there is no appeal beyond the council which means it virtually rules itself. However, according to the same code every complaint, however trivial it may appear at first, must be dealt with according to the code.

"In the interests of all the community I am considering my next move," he added.