TURNOUT for open forums with Malvern town councillors has been described as "appalling" by the mayor.

Coun Frances Victory criticised the numbers of people attending local surgeries held by the town council.

"The take up was appalling, There were more councillors than members of the public," she said.

Speaking at the council's annual public meeting at The Chase on Monday, she said the forums were the first attempt at improving feedback from the public. She acknowledged a suggestion from the audience that the timings of the surgeries, which were held at 2pm and 6pm, could be altered to allow workers more chance to attend.