SIR - How thoroughly depressing that Bradford Council's Labour leader Susan Hinchcliffe "feels obliged to stand" for the new position of Mayor of West Yorkshire (T&A, October 13). Why is that, one has to wonder?

In the eyes of many she has most certainly not set the world alight running Bradford Council, and I really can't think of anyone much worse to lead the region.

Several failed/failing/inept (take your pick) Labour members have put themselves forward for this position, all as depressing as the rest.

Indeed, far better in my view to take politics out of the mayoral role altogether, and instead have a highly respected, competent and trusted business figure to provide a neutral and unbiased hand on the tiller.

Bob Watson, Springfield Road, Baildon