I have no brief for Jonathon Seed.

I didn't vote for him and I had hoped that Mike Rees as an Independent would bring a rational approach to the post. 

However I think that the reason Mr Seed was disbarred was, frankly, ridiculous.

Read more: Date revealed for PCC election re-run

A candidate can be disbarred for being a passenger at the age of 14 in a stolen car (Simon Weston CBE).

Similarly Bob Ashford having, 46 years earlier at the age of 13, trespassed on the railway line could not stand.

He was a member of the Youth Justice Board of England and Wales and Mayor of Frome but a teenage conviction prevented a worthy candidate standing. 

It's a shame they didn't commit the 'crimes' - or even worse misdemeanors - in another country as it seems that they would not be counted.

The rules need examining.

Rehabilitation, time since the offence or even the severity of the offence is not are not considered.

This rule potentially disbars millions of people with a criminal record from serving no matter how much integrity they now have.   

I hope Mr Rees stands again with the financial support he needs from, say, 'Go Fund Me'.

I would happily back another attempt to de-politicise the role of Police and Crime Commissioner.

John Cutland

Wilton

Get more Salisbury news. 

You can also like our Facebook page and follow us on Twitter and Instagram to stay up to date.

If you want online news with fewer ads, unlimited access and reader rewards - plus a chance to support our local journalism - find out more about registering or a digital subscription.

Email newsdesk@salisburyjournal.co.uk with your comments, pictures, letters and news stories.