Our coverage of the important issue over the possibility of seeking Town Council status for Keighley was marred by the fact we failed to publish a voting form.

I know it confused a number of readers. I hope the form on page 2 of today's issue makes up for it.

I have been asked if the Keighley News is supporting the idea, against it, or sitting on the fence. The view of the newspaper was expressed in the leader column.

We have a duty to our readers and to the area we serve to get involved in such issues and ensure the coverage is balanced and reflects the widest possible variety of views.

We do take stances on issues, which have made us unpopular in the corridors of power. Some of the issues we have raised concerning the switch to a two tier system of education for our schools are proof of that.

Part of our job is to ask questions on behalf of our readers and provide them with a platform for debate or to resolve any difficulties they may have.

Of course there will be those who use issues to score points. But as long as we provide the right of reply and stick to our policy then we are providing a service.

I remember one day some years ago, on another paper, I was seen 'punching' the air. On the same day I had been accused of being biased by the Conservative, Labour and Liberal parties over a particular issue. With a smug look I said it proved I was doing my job.

Converted for the new archive on 30 June 2000. Some images and formatting may have been lost in the conversion.