I WAS appalled to hear the news about the ‘deselection’ of John Galvin as the Tory candidate for Bishopthorpe Ward in the May local elections (Tory is barred from May poll, January 23).

While John and I hold differing political affiliations, I have a lot of respect for him as an ‘old school Tory’ and not one of the Tory Nasty Party.

It shows how much the Tory party has degenerated in their attitude towards their long-serving and loyal party member.

Hon Alderman David Horton,

Ex-Labour councillor,

Top Lane,

Copmanthorpe, York

Councillor would get my support in May

WHAT was the York Conservative Association thinking when they decided to de-select Bishopthorpe councillor and ex-Lord Mayor John Galvin in the forthcoming May local elections (The Press January 23)?

They don’t call it ‘de-selection’ but say Cllr Galvin was ‘not approved’ - which seems gobbledegook meaning the same thing. Or is it blatant ageism as he is 80-years-old?

The association do not have to give reasons, so it translates as being unfair and not transparent given his 16 years as a councillor and 50 years membership of the Conservative Party.

We want citizens to be involved in public service and politics but his treatment seems dismissive and shoddy. Who is going to come forward in local and national politics when they are treated so?

John is a character - a factor missing in most politicians. He is approachable and a straight, no nonsense talker - which perhaps doesn’t fit into our very obsessive politically correct society.

I have known him since he was agent to York MP Conal Gregory and he is very involved in this community - where he lives - and responds to matters of concern on the Bishopthorpe Facebook community page when he can help.

If John Galvin wishes to continue as councillor, then I suggest he stands as an independent candidate and lets the voters decide - and he’ll get my support.

Keith Massey,

Bishopthorpe,York