SIR – It is with regret that I learn of the troubles that have beset the Rev Paul Flowers. I know this reflects the views of others who know him professionally.

Despite any issues that might involve criminal charges, in my dealings with him on the Council’s planning committee, and in his capacity as a Methodist minister at funerals etc, he was engaging and fully briefed, and was a good ward councillor.

It has to be accepted that probably the carrying out of his Council duties, his duties with the church and the chairmanship of the Co-op Bank were too much for anyone. With regard to the bank, he was appointed by others and was not responsible for the decision to merge with the Britannia which appears to be the catalyst for its troubles.

The chairman of many companies is a figurehead and the fact he was not fully au fait with day-to-day details is irrelevant.

Finally, the whole episode brings to mind the following – “there but for the grace of God go I... and, “those in glass houses...”.

Philip Coote, Rooley Crescent, Bradford