Sir, – I write in response to your article (D&S, Jan 28) referring to my de-selection as candidate for Yarm in the forthcoming borough council elections for Stockton.

I wish to clarify that there was no argument between the MP and myself regarding the need for a selection process. It is always understood that where there are more candidates than seats there will be interviews to select the candidates.

To clarify further, there has never been an argument with anyone at all regarding this process but in this case the process itself could have been challenged on the basis of the numbers attending the meeting, the possibility that some members did not receive notification and that only a few days notice of the meeting were given.

The fact remains however that I chose not to challenge the selection results and instead to stand aside and move on which after 32 years as a councillor I was happy to do.

If anyone in Yarm wishes to ask me questions on this you will find me canvassing with the three candidates on some Saturdays prior to the election.

The only connection to the MP is that the chairman of the ward branch is also his PA and that is where the confusion in your report possibly stems from, but again there were no arguments.

On another point (Council’s parking example, D&S letters Jan 28) I am sure Mark Chatburn (one of the new candidates) now knows why the council van is parked near the town hall outside the toilets on a Saturday. Unfortunately, after a Friday night, the toilets need a lot of attention.

Coun JENNIE BEAUMONT Yarm Ward, Stockton Borough Council.