I WAS intrigued by the letter (Stroud News & Journal June 14) by our ex MP Neil Carmichael not only emphasising his past hard work but in order to stress the points (?) several paragraphs are repeated in the same letter!

Whilst historically none of my family have been Labour supporters, and always voted Conservative, it was no surprise whatsoever to learn of David Drew’s success in the local elections.

David was always a ‘hands on’ person during his previous Westminster role and clearly there are many voters glad that he has come out of retirement.

Personally, I believe David will be paying attention to a host of community matters that one Neil Carmichael might not even think about.

Did I detect an element of sour grapes in the runner up’s reaction?

I recall reading “a warm person is he that is gracious in defeat”.

Clearly Mr Carmichael is going through a cold spell, and though he says “I’ll be back” it leaves me curious as to where and when he has in mind!

Darrell R Smith

King’s Stanley