IT was interesting to read the letter – Disappointed by KTC (Keighley News, February 9) – from the deputy leader of Bradford Council.

I think it would be obvious to any person, not just Cllr Val Slater, that it would have been a dreadful experience, not only for Michael Westerman but also for his family, and – had she bothered to take the time to speak to him – she would know he has already had contact with all relevant agencies.

I would also ask why she is using Mr Westerman’s experience as a way to show her disappointment at KTC – this was something personal to him.

I think most people are quite aware all children are at risk from this heinous crime, regardless of gender. They are also aware it can happen to anyone, anywhere, at any time.

I am of the personal opinion most members of Keighley Town Council are fully aware of steps BMDC is taking, however, I personally don’t think these steps are enough.

I attended the children’s services overview and scrutiny committee meeting at City Hall on February 14 and, quite frankly, I was astounded to listen to some comments – especially those of Cllr Slater, whose input consisted of repeating what everyone else had said.

Also in attendance were members of the public, Caroline Henry and Angela Sinfield. Both ladies were allowed to speak and what they had to say was most interesting. In particular, Ms Sinfield offered to take a day’s unpaid leave from her place of work to speak to all the committee about child sexual exploitation (CSE) and explain fully what it actually is. It was an offer they should have taken up as they really do have no idea on some issues.

As far as training is concerned, it is heartwarming BMDC is raising awareness, but does it really think raising awareness and ‘training’ 3,400 private hire and taxi drivers is going to change some of those drivers’ way of thinking?

As to whether there is a need for a public inquiry (that would not be costly to BMDC), I would encourage everyone to read the Autumn serious case review, which can be found online at bradford-scb.org.uk.

This review, although 73 pages long, makes heartbreaking reading and fully highlights the need for a public inquiry, as this poor girl was failed by almost every agency in her quest to get help and justice and will almost likely never recover from her ordeal.

Finally, I would like to express my personal disappointment, as a resident of Keighley, that Cllr Slater and her colleagues never take up the invitation to attend at least one of KTC’s full town council meetings because, correct me if I’m wrong, I thought those in City Hall worked for the district as a whole and, as such, they should earn their money and attend and listen to what their residents want.

JULIE ADAMS Keighley town councillor