THE PITS!

A recent press release from South Tyneside Council stated;

“South Tyneside Council has been awarded the best possible rating - judged as an excellent, four-star council, improving strongly - in national independent inspection results published today”

and

“Councillor Waggott (Council leader) said: A fortnight ago, I joined our 'Blitz-It' crew on a frosty morning to celebrate the fantastic 19 per cent increase in public satisfaction for the cleanliness of our streets.”

However, the Inspectors must not have looked at the standard of Council workmanship in Beckenham Avenue, East Boldon, where repairs have been done to verges and kerbs damaged by excessive parking congestion. The pictures outlined show how “damaged” grass verges have been “repaired”. Whilst residents were not looking for turf worthy of an Oval test wicket, I think they have the right to expect something better than a sand pit!

If South Tyneside is worthy of a 4 star rating, what must the councils be like who only get 1 or 2 award?