THE boss of a North Yorkshire theme park says he has cut off communication with his local council, until there are changes to its personnel.

A simmering row between Gordon Gibb, of Flamingo Land, and the parish council in neighbouring Kirby Misperton, exploded after Mr Gibb sent an open letter to village residents.

The letter, which Mr Gibb claims was sparked by "inflammatory" remarks over the park's Cliff Hanger ride in a parish council newsletter, spoke of possible changes to the residents' pass scheme.

People living in Kirby Misperton feared their passes, allowing them access to the park for £15.50 a year, would be withdrawn.

But Mr Gibb said villagers' responses to the letter were so positive he decided to introduce a free residents' pass.

He claimed the letter was part of a review of some park services and no decisions had been made when it was sent out.

The letter also criticised the parish clerk, the Rev Norman Lewis, for having "an unrepresentative amount of control over parish issues".

That earned Mr Gibb a rap at a recent parish council meeting, with chairman Michael Gillatt saying he was "appalled" by the letter.

"It was insulting to our clerk, who is such a stalwart of the village," Coun Gillatt said.

Mr Gibb told the Evening Press he had no regrets, and had the support of "the only people who matter" - Kirby Misperton residents.

He said: "I can't see any bridges being rebuilt without new people coming into the situation. It is irredeemable with certain individuals. I have taken feedback from the people that matter and that is good enough for me."

Mr Lewis said: "Mr Gibb must do as he wishes. It is all very sad, I do not wish to say any more about it."

Updated: 10:47 Tuesday, May 04, 2004