Sir - Having lived in Oxford for ten years, I was shocked to see one outside my door for the first time. They've never been seen round here before, at least not for a very long time.

It would be too easy to blame one councillor, as some people have done. There may be many factors leading to their appearance. But, whatever the cause, it was pretty frightening to see one at the front door, bold as brass, just standing there. You have to admire their cheek, however. Of course, I made sure it didn't come into the house, and shoo-ed it away as gently as possible; I don't believe in harming other creatures, whatever you think of them and whatever their image. Yes, seeing a Conservative candidate canvassing for my vote was astonishing.

Stuart Skyte, Oxford