Can we be surprised at voters' apparent apathy when so many candidates are bone idle?

These are the so-called "paper" candidates: Those who lend their names to bulk out the ballot paper to give the illusion that each party is making an effort in every ward, although in fact they do nothing else.

Rather than regard being a candidate as such a self-indulgence, each should realise that, say, £200 spent on a leaflet and few people cajoled into delivering it can liven up the scene more than they realise (Westbourne ward, for example, can be covered single-handedly in two days).

If voters had a four-way tussle, or more, their interest would be considerably more aroused.

At the very least, it's an interesting exercise - and good exercise.

Who knows - the place could become better run.

-Christopher Hawtree, Hove