THIS IS not meant as a statement of my political views, but rather an attempt at a wake-up call to all voters whatever their political beliefs.

So I say wake up St Helens. That includes the canvassers, campaign managers and would-be parliamentarians, standing in the borough on May 7.

One party is so cocksure of itself that it does no more than ‘parachute’ (for the second time) in a candidate with very tenuous connections to the area. As I am sure, this criteria could be applied to every candidate in one way or the other.

Back this up with total apathy to knocking on doors, this is a short fall from all candidates, I have to say. Merely relying on postal shots of what can only be described as fit for the recycling bin after no more than a cursory glance, is an insult to all the voters.

So get up and vote, no matter who you believe to be the right person; at least you can say you made an effort.

Mike Francis, Parr