IN REPLY to Roy Darke (ViewPoints, April 12), chairman of East Oxford City Planning Committee, city councillor for Headington Hill and Northway and Oxford County Councillor for Headington and Marston: I attended the Old Marston Parish Council meeting on April 2 (it meets each month at Mortimer Hall. Everyone is welcome to attend. Next meeting May 7, 7.30pm).

I wrote the information spoken by the chairman (ViewPoints, April 4). Mr Darke suggests Mary Clarkson is instrumental in forwarding planning issues.

However apparently weaknesses have appeared within the information chain.

The public needs to be confident that there is a free flow of important issues at all times.

Mr Darke belittles the Marston Independent councillor, attempting to tarnish his good name.

I and many residents got to know him when he knocked on our doors requesting our opinion regarding local issues.

Over time he has built trust and support because the majority of locals appreciate the efforts he makes to help resolve issues.

Unlike most councillors he is free to work for the people – not a slave to a political party. He is visible in the community, working hard to serve his ward. He advises residents worried over planning Issues to speak to their Marston East Oxford Area Planning Councillor – Mary Clarkson.

I hope this clears Roy Darke’s misleading, judgmental statements.

The plain fact he has chosen to stay silent to the previous five letters raising serious worries concerning local planning speaks volumes.

Eyes have now been opened and many folk do care.

ELAINE BENNETT Marston Road Marston Oxford