Geoff bladon, of Maudlin Drive, Teignmouth, writes:

The knowledge that I was not going to stand again was in fact known publicly some ten months ago when I stated in my introduction in the programme for the Veterans / Armed Forces Day in June 2010 that it was my intention to stand down from the council at this forthcoming election.

Having given of myself to the town as a councillor for the last 12 years and having given of myself for more than 40 years to the youth and community of Devon, it is now time for me to make some time for myself and pursue other interests.

May I take this opportunity to thank sincerely all the very many people who have supported me down the years and which I have always recognised.

I mention in particular my agent, Roger Woodhouse, for all his extremely hard work over the years, and also my very supportive and understanding wife, Linda. Also the many people who have told me they were surprised to see, and sorry to hear, that I had decided to retire from local government.

I have deemed it an honour to have served the town as a councillor and I wish my successor – and, indeed, all the candidates standing for election for the right reasons – the very best of luck.

l The Post apologises unreservedly to Mr Bladon for an inexplicable error in again not publishing his correct surname, this time in last week's edition.

Last week's letter is reprinted here in full.MORE LETTERS ONLINE