In the latest edition of Croydon Reports we are treated to the spectacle of four members of our Politburo, sorry Cabinet, sporting the colours of promotion-winning Crystal Palace FC.

While I can appreciate that they are desperate to be associated with success, does this not represent the most blatant, and perhaps most feeble, misuse of this taxpayer-funded magazine for their own ends?

While I would also congratulate the Eagles on their achievement, I think that council leader Hugh Malyan has given them the kiss of death when he states that their success reflects well on the town as a whole.

In the unfortunate event of Palace being relegated next season, or worse from his point of view, just before the council elections in May 2006, can we expect him to admit that Croydon was going down the pan in similar fashion? I think not.

As Palace has hit the £30million jackpot, and his council are nearly bankrupt, it would be better to ask the club if they would sponsor his cabinet. As I look at that photo again, I begin to wonder whether such a deal has already been signed.

ADAM KELLETT Ferndale Road, South Norwood