IN his letter, Coun Chris Hogg identifies me as the David Wilson who stood as Labour candidate in last year's local elections (March 5).

This is not the case.

I am just an ordinary York citizen and voter who wishes to give credit where it is due.

In commending Paul Blanchard and his colleagues I simply wanted to make one small contribution towards combating the general cynicism about local and national politicians that is so prevalent in contemporary Britain.

David Wilson,

First Avenue,

Heworth, York.

...CHRIS Hogg is correct in saying that I stood as a candidate at the last local elections. Where he is wrong is thinking I wrote the letter to you of March 3.

I hope he is more diligent when dealing with council matters.

David Wilson,

Fifth Avenue,

York.

...MR Wilson is a constituent of mine, and although he shares the same name as the David Wilson who stood as the Labour Party candidate, they are completely separate, not related, and even live at opposite ends of Heworth.

An unfortunate coincidence indeed - but it's a shame Coun Hogg is so quick to condemn without first checking his facts.

Coun Paul Blanchard,

Labour, Heworth Ward,

Heworth Mews,

York.

Updated: 11:00 Tuesday, March 09, 2004