I AM not a member of a major political party but I must say that Tory mayor, Ben Houchen, is a shining star in Labour’s black council tax sky.

Whilst our boroughs, and other precepting authorities, are piling on the council tax misery, Ben has pledged not to add a “mayoral precept” to our already astronomic council tax bills, either this year, or any year, up to the end of his term of office (Echo, Jan 8).

As far as spending is concerned, Ben will make do with his devolved government cash. Like Margaret Thatcher, he wisely believes in living within his means.

Steve Kay, Redcar & Cleveland Councillor