I wasn't surprised to read about the round of applause that ended a recent meeting of Durham CC when one of its members, Cllr Samantha Townsend, opened up about the appalling abuse she repeatedly received while representing residents.

Regardless of our political differences, experience enhances our ability to empathise, and the mindless harassment, thuggish intimidation and concern for the safety of loved ones Cllr Townsend courageously spoke of will strike a chord with anyone who holds public office, at any level. Just last week, my colleague Stuart Anderson spoke out about the awful threats he, his family and staff have suffered too.