I WISH to respond to the article ‘Controversial councillor bows out of election’.

Contrary to the report I have not stood down and intend to complete my full term of office.

My decision not to seek re-election has nothing to do with the witch hunt against me conducted by senior Wigan Council officers, at vast expense to taxpayers.

I made a decision soon after my mother’s death in January 2013 not to re-stand as a councillor.

Let’s not forget that I have been an elected representative for Tyldesley Ward for the last nine years – a role that I have thoroughly enjoyed.

During this time I was subjected to indifference and insulting remarks from some senior officers, such as “We’re not bothered what you think, we’ll just overrule you”.

The accusation that I had a problem with women is something that I have always strongly denied. Over the years I’ve worked with male and female social workers, nurse practitioners, teachers etc and I’ve never had one complaint.

Last year I suffered a stroke which led to a mental breakdown and a period of hospitalisation.

I was trying to keep this a private matter, as according to reports there is still a stigma with the public regarding mental health issues.

The media didn’t bother to investigate the real facts of why I had I had not attended a number of meetings. Neither did they report the fact that I have always paid in full for my personal use of council facilities. Can others say that?

I would like to say a big thank you to everyone who has supported me over the years and I will continue to serve the community in the future.

Councillor Robert Bleakley