The claim of Mr Boase (Public participation should be free, Beacon letters 23rd October) that the public participation Standing Order is new interested me, both of us being ex-councillors twenty odd years ago.

In 1995 as mayor I proposed public participation, and it was moved and passed “that 10 minutes notice” was required for public to address council. In those days Standing Orders were reviewed yearly. The public could speak on the subject that was of concern to them, and preferably to the ward councillor where they lived, or the council could then agenda the same for the next meeting if it wasn’t already on the agenda before them. All had an option.

The first person to take up the rule was a lady from Holywell Close complaining of the state of Elstob Road that led into where she lived. Blockages were left by a builder in the road which affected their toilets. At that time this meant the resident who called for help paid the bill. I believe a better system was resolved and no doubt neighbours will recall better than I how it was resolved. The rule was not used too often, but it worked.

Obviously standing orders can be changed and have been since then.

It’s very important that minutes are written with care, as we can witness today.

Sylvia Gilbert (Monmouth)