First of all, may I congratulate Mr Holles on his interest in my election communication. For although I obviously consider its contents to be both important and relevant, to know that someone, not even in the ward that I am standing in, should have read it in such detail, I consider a compliment.

May I please make the following comments concerning his letter? At no time did I make any comments concerning the students in Falmouth, or take side with Ms Merrett.

What I said was, if those who chose to criticise Ms Merrett would have the courage to do as she does, and patrol the streets, then they would be worthy and command much more respect than sniping on the sidelines, concerning her views. Hence my comments concerning freedom of speech.

I would like to make it very clear, I have no prejudices against the students. I never said that I had. I was merely defending the rights of the individual to express their opinions, as I would defend Mr Holles' right to criticise me, for it is a democracy that we live in.

Concerning his quotes about my being on Candy Atherton's selection, and, using his expression, having her dumped upon us, I am not entirely sure what he is saying about this episode, although obviously I do have my own views.

Concerning his question, what have I got against Falmouth? I have chosen to live here for some 36-plus years and am now standing for election to the council. Does that indicate that I have anything against Falmouth? I will leave that to your readers to decide.

Barrie Elliott, Boscundle Avenue, Falmouth