BEYOND FEAR AND LOATHING is a story of local politics and community activism. While it is specific to a location it is universal. And although of a certain time-frame it is timeless. Without doubt the events described – the absurd, the comic and the tragic – take place to a greater or lesser extent within the 560 Councils around the country.

While local government is the level closest to the people there is widespread ignorance and misunderstanding about its role and the means for citizens to participate in local decision-making. It is however, at the local level, where significant opportunities for democratic enhancement exist. A positive case for change in the way we do local democracy is presented, with community and council working together in partnership.