‘THINKING the Unthinkable’: Because Cllr Philip Eades is Sheriff of Poole it is perfectly understandable that his letter in the Echo focuses on the Borough’s proud history, citing the Longspee Charter of 1248.

However, in this 21st century of ours Poole and its neighbours Bournemouth and Christchurch together make up the South East Dorset Conurbation.

I am among many who think that our whole conurbation is greater than the sum of its parts and that we can be more prosperous and successful by pooling our resources and presenting a united face to the world.

Consequently I very much hope that our local councillors will not stand in the way of a detailed review of the way we are governed.

I also hope that the Echo and its readers will join in a lively debate on this key subject and that Councillor Eades, in particular, will play a lively part in discussing the fundamental issues without allowing well justified pride in the traditions of Poole to prejudice the outcome.

JOHN PROBERT, Sherwood Avenue, Poole