Amid the steady stream of 'cuts' headlines, criticism from ministers, and the finger-pointing of lobby groups, it can be difficult in the Westminster bubble not to conclude the picture of local government is solely one of doom and gloom.

But, of course, the people who, rightly, matter most to councils, are the residents they serve. It is their opinions which are the best judge as to whether their council is doing a good job, and their views which councillors hear on the doorsteps and see reflected in the ballot box.