AS a democratic voter, I marvel at the stunt pulled by the council officials at the election count.

There has got to be a dozen options open to deciding situations where there is not a clear vote, we are governed by one now, it is called “coalition”.

This is the sort of stuff that editor and satirist Ian Hislop would “lap up”.

Why don’t we give all the voters up at Ramsbottom a “straw” each and ask them to assemble at the civic hall on polling day? We have just concerned ourselves with an “alternative” voting system, maybe certain people have found an “alternative” answer!

I can see it now — front page news on the tabloids: “Disappointed with the outcome of the AV referendum? Come live in Ramsbottom and your prayers will be answered.”

If this weren’t so serious an issue, it would be a joke.

V McLain Walshaw Park