I think there is much more to campaigning to be a good local MP than sitting in the Guildhall trying to talk to a Labour group that has effectively withdrawn from supporting the city through these difficult times (Poor attendance, Letters, December 12).

What I like about Madeleine Kirk is that she is a strong local voice and is out – rain, snow, hail and fog – getting her message across.

We hear nothing from Labour in York Central and York Outer.

We also hear nothing from the Conservatives in York Central, and receive the odd glossy leaflet in York Outer.

Madeleine has lived here for almost 30 years, has been a councillor since 1991 and is used to speaking up on local issues.

I know she has campaigned against post office and health cuts for many years – cuts made by a Labour Government.

She cares about York and brought up her family here, holding down a full-time job at the same time as being a wife, mother, councillor and candidate. She should be applauded, not criticised.

I hope Madeleine will carry on campaigning and standing up for local people on the issues that matter. We need her.

NP Emmerson, Centurion Square, Skeldergate, York.