The Local Involvement Network (LINk) which examines and influences how health and care services are delivered is crucial.

But, despite the enormous efforts of Mr Burton and others it is clear, I’m afraid, that it hasn’t done all it was originally set up for. In my view, in the 20 odd months it has been going, it has not been as obvious to the public as it should have been and it’s an undisputable fact that different factions within it have impacted badly on greater real and meaningful delivery.

The previous County Council set it up and appointed the ‘host’ and left it pretty well to itself. Despite the hard work of many LINk volunteers (which I keep mentioning) I felt, as many do, it needed a fresh start with more new people taking part.

The ‘I’ and ‘me’ you mention is interesting. Local politicians are criticised for being faceless with accountability unclear. I’m passionate about clear better local democracy and think that needs obvious responsibility and accountability.

Whilst LINk approach, outcomes and advice must be independent, its financing and ultimate accountability lies with me.

Part of better Local Government and democracy is about people knowing exactly who to aim criticism or comment at just like you have done in your comments.

So that aspect seems to be working and I take your comments on board. Many thanks for them.