IT was with disbelief that I read that both candidates for the post of leader of the council had refused to set out their personal visions for Darlington’s future (Echo, July 17) when asked by The Northern Echo.

Does this mean neither of them have one, or they are afraid we will decide that they are simply not what we want?

The problem is, we, the council tax payers, will have no say. That privilege is reserved for their 29 colleagues.

Further, Steve Harker is Jenny Chapman’s agent, an association which makes it difficult for either of them to publicly disagree on any policy affecting the town.

Many of us are disaffected, as is shown by the very low turnout at Cockerton. Time for the council to take a long hard look at itself, for all our sakes.

Alexandra Bailey, Darlington