Why pick on poster?

Published: 26 February 2010

I HAVE just noticed a poster outside Budgens in Upper Street, Islington. Obviously, it has caused deep offence. Andrew Marx, the council enforcement “officer” (no relation, I don’t think) has affixed a notice to it saying that unless good reason can be proven beyond doubt that permission has been granted for its display, there will be a court case.
And what does this poster advertise? Yet another lap dancing joint? A dog fighting pit? An opium den?
In fact, it has the heading “Essential Islington” and lists useful non-commercial telephone numbers in the borough, including the council’s. There’s even a handy map showing where they are located.
The major part of the poster, which is minor in size, is given over to the NHS/Islington Council campaign to encourage people to quit smoking.
I suspect Budgens is just trying to be good neighbours and interact with the community, but it did fail to get Mr Marx’s go-ahead.
The council has simply shot itself in the foot and intends to waste yet more of our money.
ROBIN HARDY
Compton Avenue, N1