LOCAL elections are on May 1. Before deciding which way to vote, my wife and I, friends, family and, I am sure, fellow co-signatories of the Save the BTC petition would like to know candidates' views.

Recently more than 1,000 local people signed a petition calling for a long-term lease to be offered to the BTC Club in Stoneham Lane. This is the only way to enable it to survive and flourish.

At present we have only heard from the Conservatives.

Following a chat with friends, and others, it appears they have written to every person who signed the petition that was handed in to the council.

The Conservatives' support was unequivocal. They make it very clear that if elected they would support the offer of a lease as a priority.

With both our son and daughter playing for different teams at BTC, we are most anxious that the club be supported.

We, and many others, would appreciate it if candidates could make a statement, preferably public (perhaps in the Daily Echo or the letters page) as to both their individual and party level of support and position should it come to a council vote.

Unless we hear positive support from other candidates then we are minded to support the Conservatives on this important local issue.

BRIAN AND HELGA ELEY, Southampton.