I felt it important to respond to the story (Gazette, September 6) regarding a spoof Twitter account set up in Sir Bob Russell ’s name. This is a very unfortunate case, and I would like to take this opportunity to confirm no one from Colchester Labour Party has been involved in this spoof.

Sir Bob Russell believes the account was controlled “by three immature young men who are all members of the same party” and is part of a three-year “dirty tricks” campaign.

Again, we strenuously deny any involvement in this matter.

Unfortunately, many high-profile individuals are subject to parody Twitter accounts. I do not believe this is either reasonable or acceptable. Indeed, if I were in Sir Bob’s position, I am sure I would be equally offended. However, Twitter is a worldwide social media tool for people to express their own opinions. Indeed, Sir Bob has voted consistently over recent months in favour of the Government’s controversial Protection of Freedoms Bill. Many modern politicians find Twitter a good way to help them connect and communicate with new sections of the community.

This is, of course, in addition to more traditional forms of communication. For these reasons alone, I shall continue to tweet and I would urge Bob to give it a go. Despite his opposition to so many progressive ideas, I feel this is one thing he could be a bit more willing to embrace.

Jordan Newell

Chairman, Colchester Labour Party

Tufnell Way

Colchester