I READ with amusement the catalogue of claims in last week s press. It is probably common to all politicians to take credit for supposed successes but the Liberal Democrats seem to have made it an art form. Stansted Airport: Well done to Uttlesford Distri

I READ with amusement the catalogue of claims in last week's press. It is probably common to all politicians to take credit for supposed successes but the Liberal Democrats seem to have made it an art form.

Stansted Airport: Well done to Uttlesford District Council for turning down BAA's expansion plans but it wasn't just the Lib Dems. I know it makes a neat self-congratulatory letter but UDC were advised by their officers and were aware of the views of over 80 per cent of the community.

The opposition to expansion at Stansted has been brilliantly co-ordinated by the Stop Stansted Expansion group and by Sir Alan Haselhurst. Within Uttlesford it is NOT a political matter and has cross-party agreement.

The "I'm making a bigger impact than you" argument is tiresome.

Recycling: Well done to the people of Uttlesford for increasing the rate of recycling. Apparently that is another Lib Dem success. Actually every council is faced with the same challenge and having to respond. Essex County Council laid out its target so it is no surprise that UDC finally did.

The community has been aching to recycle for the last three years and even now would like to make better use of three wheelie-bins. We only wish the scheme was as cost-effective as the options chosen by other councils.

Council Restructure: Patting oneself on the back for this one does stretch the imagination.

If you come to power, restructure, then lose control of running costs so you have to restructure again, you have done well. At least the Audit Commission disagree.

The good people of Uttlesford deserve the pat on the back. They are consistently pointing the way without ever claiming the credit. How refreshing.

Holly Fletcher

Manuden