Dave Grylls, of Wolverton Drive, Kingsteignton, writes:

Is it any wonder that so few of us now have so little faith in democracy and the political system we now experience.

I refer of course to the ongoing saga of the perhaps unwise remark made by Anne Marie Morris.

I agree wholeheartedly with the fact that all statements in speeches should be rigidly checked and reread by all concerned, ensuring that the whole document does not cause offence to anyone.

I have worked alongside Anne Marie Morris in many capacities locally.

I have also made common knowledge of my opposition and support on many many occasions.

I have never ever found her to be nasty or racist towards anyone. Perhaps misunderstood at times, as are we all.

I feel the continued pursuance of this dedicated MP nothing short of an all-too-common left wing witch hunt and furthermore blown out of all proportion even by her own party.

Anne Marie has proved to be an outstanding representative of Teignbridge and the South West as a whole.

She has proved to be exemplary thoroughout both her terms of office.

It goes without saying that many of us say the wrong things at times but if the apology is quickly forthcoming is there any need for the action implemented? Is it not now time for forgiveness? I feel that.

If one looks very deeply into many things which may or not have been said more through habit than anything, I and many were brought up in the knowledge that we were British, members of a Commonwealth and the British Empire, and probably used a number of quips and sayings that would cause great offence in today’s climate.

May I conclude by saying when is enough – enough!

Think on voters, we could lose a first-class representative for Teignbridge.

I myself have now stood aside in all matters political having been used and abused on many occasions.