[Gayle]

A few points

I have not been on for a while because I have been busy - I'm not avoiding the issue of cost of the Victorian Swimming Gala. I will happily let you know it.

However, I don't think it's fair to let you know in advance because as has happened with the Flash Mob you will prejudge it. I think it's unfair to judge something purely on cost when you have no idea of quality, effort and effect. Quite simply to pre-judge something undermines the hard work and effort that local people are putting into this. Think how demoralising it will be if any of the young people from schools, youth clubs and Accrington and Rossendale college will feel if they read this and you're already dismissing it as unworthy or rubbish. A lot of time and effort is going into this.

I am not hiding the cost, I'm just asking if it can be discussed afterwards.

Also, whilst I'm on this - with regards to the article in the paper on Sat - a few inaccuracies

The crochet sculptures did not cost £2,500. The cost was for the artists time for workshops with local people who then created the sculptures. Your extremely dismissive views on this could potentially upset the local young people and older people who took part in the sessions and contributed to the sculptures. A lot of people learnt new skills with crocheting and enjoyed the sessions.

Ken - the knitting did not take up space in the market hall that could have been rented out - it filled space that was vacant because it was not rented out. If any paying stall holder had wanted the space we would have automatically vacated it.