I am replying to your article, Protest sparks bid for election (Oxford Mail, January 28).

Why is Dr Francis Kennett so much against rats?

Does she not know that these small creatures enter her home looking for something to eat?

Is she hoping to get city councillor Jean Fooks to retire? If so, Dr Kennett is sad.

Mrs Fooks is doing a magnificent job.

It was councillor John Tanner who started the idea of fortnightly rubbish collections.

He handed the job to Mrs Fooks who has worked hard, explaining and doing demonstrations at area committees and tenants' meetings. She is well respected for her commitment to work.

Streets now look fabulous with green wheelie bins lined up.

The Tories are known for meanness - they give no help to the elderly, and not even a poor rat can get their leftovers.

Let Dr Kennett talk to the county council leader about transport and leave Mrs Fooks to carry on the good work she is doing.

KEVIN O'MALLEY Kennedy Close Oxford