Campaigner expects 500 to protest at Shifnal town council

More than 500 people are expected to pack a meeting of Shifnal town council after complaints about its conduct, a campaigner said today.

Mark Mountford, 45, of Maple Close, circulated a letter around the town complaining about the running of the council.

His complaints include the treatment of former councillors, an increase in staffing costs and a long-running campaign over the future of the town's Christmas lights.

He called on residents to attend the meeting on May 11 at 7pm at Shifnal Village Hall and said the reaction had been 'unbelievable'.

"I think there could be around 500 people there in the end. I have had at least 300 people confirm they will definitely be there. Some are bringing their families," he said. "There are a lot of people out there who have gripes about the council."

Shifnal Town Council called the extraordinary meeting to discuss the allegations in Mr Mountford's letter.

Mr Mountford said: "There are so many people angry about this.

"Around four weeks ago I had no interest in local politics, but I have come to realise that the council is losing the confidence of the people.

Fiona Thomas, clerk for Shifnal Town Council, said the council had written an open letter discussing the points. The letter is due to go on the council website and town noticeboards and will be sent out to every household.