Just seen these last two comments. I have no 'hidden agenda' whatsoever, Maxonian - if a writer in a local paper consistently publishes articles that represent a point of view that is strongly opposed by others, then, in any country that's a democracy, those 'others' have every right to have their voice heard.

To 'oppose' is not to be rude. The rudeness in these columns almost invariably comes from those who support Vic.

And, when these people are proved decisively wrong (think of the correspondence on the Winterton Internet poll), there is never a word of retraction, or apology.

I personally certainly do not 'hate' Vic - indeed, I think he's a good writer. But if he has a column in which he expresses forthright views, then those who oppose those views should stand up and be counted.

   Pete111 perhaps you have lower standards. I have had another look and the comments made were certainly not friendly and I believe that the word "Hatred" was fairly used. I think that the word "pathological" could have been included.

   It is good that he points out the establishment cock ups when it occurs, and long may he continue. Pete, it comes across pretty plainly that you do not like Mr. Barlow, so what. He probably does not like you, but he does not disclose this. This is free country and Mr. Barlow is not under any obligation to stand for office, unless he wanted to. Perhaps there is some hidden agenda behind your ever caustic comments towards him. If you are so keen, stand for office yourself, and God help Macclesfield.

   Leigh, he said there was NO hatred in those comments. It was someone else who quite wrongly used the word.

The point stands - why does Vic Barlow not stand for office? He constantly criticises the council - and he even has talked of the desperate need for 'independent' voices.

Why, then, with his strong town base in place (through his column and those who support him) does he not stand?

   Hatred is funny! ?

   Geez, lighten up mate, there is no hatred in his comment.

Its funny.

   QUOTE “If Vic stood for office it would be a disaster, having already infected the local population with his weekly column he would now be free to harness his media power with political clout and perscute anyone who dares speak out against him - SlinkyWizard watch your back! You'll end up digging ditches in Vics fiefdom, living on the left overs from Mrs B's roasts, held as a prisoner by the BBC (Barlows Briefs Crusaders) The Satisfied Customer 29/03/2008 at 10:16 “

What a sad, pathetic comment. It has too much vilification and hatred to be classed as humour. I do not usually comment and the above commenter is a reason why.

   I am in total agreement. Vic Barlow does give praise but loon may he comment on the inefficiency and profligacy of the Council, Borough and County. Let us not forget that it is our money in the way of a very high Council Tax which is funding this. If the Council were a super store acting in the way they do, their store would be completely empty with all the customers elsewhere. The Council and their officers have forgotten what their purpose is. In a well repeated phrase, they are not fit for purpose.

   If Vic stood for office it would be a disaster, having already infected the local population with his weekly column he would now be free to harness his media power with political clout and perscute anyone who dares speak out against him - SlinkyWizard watch your back! You'll end up digging ditches in Vics fiefdom, living on the left overs from Mrs B's roasts, held as a prisoner by the BBC (Barlows Briefs Crusaders)

   T. Eastman, you're absolutely right that governments, be they local or national, need to be held to account. This scrutiny is most effective, however, when it is objective and constructive, which perhaps explains why the approach taken in this column over the years has unfortunately had little effect.

Mr. Barlow has had a unique vantage point on these matters over the years; he also substantial name recognition. He now has an opportunity to do the very thing he is now "encouraging" others to do; to stand for election so that he can attempt to make a difference. Would you not vote for him, T. Eastman?

   Many times Local and Central Government need criticising, it is called free speech and democracy. He does also give praise but perhaps you conveniently miss that.

   Well, well - you decided to take your "Big K" account for a spin this week, eh - will you be giving the other accounts a rest? ;-)

Unlike Mr. Barlow, I have not used a local newspaper column over the years, to criticise local government. He has laid out dozens of "proposals" for "change" in that time. Perhaps it's time for him to put up, or shut up.

   Commenting from abroad to be clever, anmd try and be one up. It is blatantly obvious that you do not like Mr. Barlow, and criticise just for the sake of it. Stand for election yourself - oh you can't - dear me.

   Perhaps it's time for Mr. Barlow to stand for election, and attempt to actually do something about the things that he thinks are wrong with local government.