JAMES ALEXANDER accuses me of having personal problems with the council and using any opportunity to attack it (The Press, April 29).

This is not the case. I only criticise when it is justified and for the most part have amicable relations with employees and elected members. Two weeks ago, the Civic Party officiated at my business premises and today I had a very friendly exchange with an officer dealing with council tax affairs.

A local authority is not one homogenous entity but an organisation made up of many departments and individuals. Like any organisation, there are within it heroes and villains.

The majority of people within the council command my utmost respect and admiration; but there are some whose conduct and qualities I find less than admirable.

Matthew Laverack, Lord Mayor’s Walk, York.