DISTRICT politicians criticised for not turning up at town council meetings in Cullompton say they are "not the best use of their time".

Town councillors have met at the town hall 15 times since January but are disappointed Councillor Terry Snow has not attended once.

Councillor Linda Holloway, who has only been twice, says the three-minute time limit to deliver a report on Mid Devon District Council matters is "insufficient".

The town council says a better attendance from their district counterparts will help them answer questions from the public on planning, enforcement and other duties carried out by Phoenix House.

Ms Holloway, an independent representative for the north of the town, said: "I have offered to attend a council meeting if any additional information is required and I haven't, as yet, received such a request.

"I suppose people have different views on what they expect of a district councillor, but I think being at a meeting isn't the most effective way of giving reports."

Ms Holloway, deputy chairman of the district's planning committee, said she was regularly approached by residents in the street and keeps people informed by email and telephone.

It was also explained the public regularly attended councillors' surgeries in the town to voice their concerns.

"I can give much more fresh information as and when it happens by emailing town councillors personally. If I was to wait until the next month for a meeting, it will be out of date," she said.

Former mayor Councillor Mike Thompson believes an improved district councillor attendance would better inform them of Mid Devon District Council matters relevant to Cullompton.

Councillor Graham Hollister said it can become frustrating when the town council has to defer a response to residents' questions. "This is the best opportunity we have for getting answers on subjects we don't normally deal with," he said.

Mr Snow, independent member for the south of the town, said the two district representatives who sit on the town council — Eileen Andrews and Mid Devon executive member Jane Campbell — were capable of informing members of developments.

"They know exactly what is going on with the district, so we would only be duplicating. To my mind, Cullompton Town Council always seems critical of the district and all they do is pick fault when useful dialogue would help," said Cllr Snow.

Simon Coombs, member services manager at Mid Devon District Council, said: "It is up to district councillors to decide the extent to which they attend town and parish council meetings. They may well wish to keep in touch with their residents by other means".