Councillors defend 'reprehensible' delivery of leaflets during lockdown TWO councillors have defended their decision to deliver leaflets to households during coronavirus lockdowns. The actions of Durham County Councillors Craig Martin and Joy Allen were described as “reprehensible” by political opponents, who accused them of putting self-promotion before public safety. Cllr Martin, the Liberal Democrat councillor for North Lodge, and volunteers delivered leaflets in the Chester-le-Street area in early January – after the third national lockdown began – canvassing for votes in May's local elections. He said he stopped as soon as the Government advised against door to door campaigning, stating it was “not considered essential or necessary activity”.