Recruit Hazel's determination

Hazel bought a council maisonette almost 20 years ago. Under any other circumstances, that would be enough for anyone to decide how their home is improved. But not under bureaucratic regulations which allowed the council to select a contractor - who proposed charging more than double the cost offered to Hazel. She went to a tribunal which ruled in her favour. She also successfully challenged the council over their apparently arbitrary charge to leaseholders for management fees.

She is clearly a determined and motivated lady - just the kind of person the council ought to have on their side in ensuring the people of Sheffield get value for their money. Rather than challenge Hazel's victory, at further cost to the public, the council ought to recruit her into their ranks to do just that.

How equality in law comes with a price

YET again, we learn that not all laws are equal. Just as many sex offenders were 'let off' with a caution after admitting their crimes, we are now told that more than a thousand people caught in possession of cannabis were also dealt with leniently, receiving only formal warnings for breaking the law.

Once more, motorists caught going through speed cameras will wonder why their offence is so serious that it calls for a mandatory fine.

Perhaps the answer is that there are no fixed penalties for sex offending and drug handling. If that was calculated into official budgets, perhaps then we would see more equality in the administration of the law.

Is Hamilton so hot?

LEWIS Hamilton, this year's big British name on the Formula One circuit, has been signed up to write his autobiography...at the age of 22. The publishers claim it will be an inspirational insight into his life and sporting achievements. And he has indeed done very well for himself - though winning three out of 12 races so far this season hardly makes him the hottest name in racing, does it?