As far as crimes go, it is hard to imagine one more contemptible or objectionable than that committed by Mark Ellis.

In a four-year period, the 36-year-old stole more than £6,000 in donations that good-hearted individuals thought was bound for the coffers of East and West Challow Royal British Legion.

The timing of this loathsome individual's court case could not have been more poignant.

Just hours after millions across the country paid their respects to those who had given their lives to ensure we enjoy the freedom we take for granted, Ellis was jailed for six months after plucking up the courage to admit 12 charges of theft.

But what is equally disturbing is that this pathetic creature is a father.

We only hope his child does not follow his example.

Not only has he betrayed the war veterans for which this money was intended, but he has betrayed his family too.

Meanwhile, the list we publish today of those city councillors who snubbed this year's civic remembrance service is sure to irk some. And so it should.

Councillors are there to represent the community and it is not unreasonable to expect a good turnout on Remembrance Sunday, of all days.

Among those who did not turn up were the leader of the council, John Goddard, and his deputy, David Rundle.

We could not agree more with the thoughts of Col Chris Keeble - a devout Christian - who negotiated the surrender of Argentinian troops at the Battle of Goose Green in the Falklands War in 1982.

He reasoned that councillors should support those who had provided them with the right to be able to choose whether they turned up to such events or not.

After all, two minutes is hardly a sacrifice to make - unlike the ultimate sacrifice made by the countless soldiers who have fallen in the cause of freedom.