Dear Dr Burgess,

I congratulate you on your first Advocate's report. So many buttons pressed with expertise. Thank you.

I am sorry I cannot be with you on the 16th Novemebr in Dorset but I will be on my way to Japan to take part in an International Seminar in Kyoto on Rural Community Development. I was also sorry you could not be with us in Wells the week before last for the colloquy on Commuinty led Plans...however, Trevor Cherret represented the CRC.

This leads me...if I may be so bold...to one cause of concern re your Report. No mention of Parish/Community Plans! These are really so important and are fundamental to the action which you so rigourously call for! Yes rural communities are superb at self help...just as I am sure urban ones are if you disregard Simon Jenkins! But we do need to get Parish/Community led Plans higher up the agenda, and I am sorry to say...I think you missed a real trick there...especially as you comment on Quality Parishes.

By the way, and I am sure you ARE aware of this, but next year 2007, is the twentieth anniversay of the Local Council Administration course at the University of Gloucestershire. I know we would be thrilled if you could attend an event in the early summer to coincide with the Annual Society of Local Council Clerks Annual Summer Seminar...may we call upon you?

As ever, thank you, and I am not criticising...just 'murmouring'!

Stephen Wright

Thank you for your comments Mr Wright, and sorry for the delay in replying.
I've passed your comments and invitation to Stuart's office as I'm sure he'd like to respond personally.
Thanks again