I FIND it deplorable that the Mayor of Stockton, Councillor Colin Leckonby, an elected representative, would seek to deny people the democratic right to decide if we should have an elected mayor.

Regarding his disparaging remarks about the consultation document sent to people in Stockton, (HAS, May 5), I suggest he reads my letter again.

I did not state that there was no consultation. Coun Leckonby is trying to insult people’s intellect.

He also says the main reason the mayor needs the £17,500 additional allowance is to buy new suits and other clothing.

I live on pension credits. The £17,500 that he received is three times my annual income.

I have been in consultation with other people, including a serving Stockton councillor, about organising a petition to force Stockton Borough Council to give people in the borough the right to decide in a binding referendum on having an elected mayor.

Keith Dewison, Billingham.