I WAS really saddened to learn that Caerphilly council’s Leader, Cllr Keith Reynolds, would be standing down in May (“Caerphilly council leader to stand down”, Argus, 22 February). Keith has given the communities of Aberbargoed, Rhymney Valley and Caerphilly county borough outstanding public service over his 38 years as a councillor - for the last three, as a strong, principled and effective Caerphilly council leader. Public life in Caerphilly will be the poorer without his contribution. 
I’m proud to count Keith as a friend. I wish him a speedy recovery from his current poor health, and a long and enjoyable retirement.

Councillor Gez Kirby
St Andrews Drive
Pontllanfraith