Archive

  • 'David and Goliath' battle for Falmer

    Villagers trying to defeat Brighton and Hove Albion's stadium plan are involved in a David and Goliath struggle, according to a parish priest. Canon Andrew Robinson, priest of Stanmer with Falmer, said the proposal had caused "extreme agitation" to

  • False claims

    Students at Blatchington Mill School were leafleted by an anonymous anti-war group and, by now, many of their parents will be aware of the content. Because it claims National Union of Teachers support, I am writing in the hope I can correct the leaflet's

  • Case for hope

    John Parry tells us we must now stop protesting against the war and support 'our' forces who may be killed or injured. The best way to protect our forces and, indeed, those of all nationalities who face death or injury, is to work as hard as possible

  • Insignificant

    David McNiven from Burgess Hill (Letters, March 25) states the pulling down and subsequent tearing up of the US flag was 'one of the most disgusting and ignorant scenes' he had ever experienced. Well David, perhaps you should get out a bit more. Try opening

  • Tenant help

    Private-sector tenants are often unsure how to recover their deposits from rogue landlords (The Argus, March 19). Help is available from Brighton and Hove City Council. Guidelines on how tenants can recover their deposits are available from the council's

  • Points to ponder

    You report (The Argus, March 24) the 2020 Community Partnership group has identified eight priority areas which Brighton and Hove City Council urgently needs to tackle. These include: Enterprise, safety, health, inclusivity and affordability. Does this

  • 'David and Goliath' battle for Falmer

    Villagers trying to defeat Brighton and Hove Albion's stadium plan are involved in a David and Goliath struggle, according to a parish priest. Canon Andrew Robinson, priest of Stanmer with Falmer, said the proposal had caused "extreme agitation" to local

  • Seek Coldean's interests

    We live in Coldean, a community without a community centre. Pat Hawkes is interested in Hollingdean getting a centre. Tehmtan Framroze is interested in a community centre for ethnic minorities in Portslade while we, in Coldean, get nothing at all. The

  • Ask for help

    As someone who has rented property in Brighton and Hove for more than 20 years, I read 'Letting rogues keep deposits' (The Argus, March 19) with great interest. Three housemates and I lost more than £700 when one of the so-called 'reputable' agents quoted

  • Zamora back for Seagulls

    Albion have been boosted by the probable return of injured goal ace Bobby Zamora for the relegation run-in. A second scan has revealed the slight hamstring tear Zamora suffered in last week's defeat at Sheffield United is healing well. Boss Steve Coppell

  • Kuipers out for season

    Albion keeper Michel Kuipers faces surgery on his injured thigh next month, ruling him out for the rest of the season. Boss Steve Coppell is resigned to being without the big Dutchman after his comeback was cut short yesterday. Kuipers played only the

  • Kitson comeback as reserves draw

    Albion's injury-plagued striker Paul Kitson came through a whole game for the reserves as he continued his lengthy recovery in a 1-1 draw at Oxford. Kitson, who has not played for the first team since January following a series of injuries, looked well

  • Go-ahead for barracks 'village'

    Plans for a modern "urban village" at the derelict Preston Barracks site in Brighton have been approved. City councillors last night gave the green light to a scheme that could create more than 1,000 jobs. A detailed development plan will be produced

  • Drink ban on city streets

    Street drinking is to be banned across Brighton and Hove. Police will be given extra powers to arrest those who refuse to hand over bottles and cans. Councillors last night agreed to apply for permission from the Home Office to extend a pilot scheme,

  • Held in trust

    I see (The Argus, March 19) that the poor old private landlord is receiving a pasting again. The whole idea of deposits being held by third parties is simply unnecessary. In the vast majority of cases, the tenant gets his/her deposit back and, in a large

  • Why I voted

    Reading Mr Murphy's letter (The Argus, March 24) prompted me to recall just why I and many other people voted for Tony Blair. I did not vote for Mr Blair to invade Iraq (we've still not sorted Northern Ireland), I did not vote for Mr Blair to charge our

  • Table Tennis: Sussex go down

    Sussex failed to impress during their last four matches of the County Championship premier division at Grantham and were relegated. After winning the first match 7-3 against Glamorgan, captain Ritchie Venner fancied their gold medal chances. But it was

  • On your bike

    I can't believe Sussex Police has spent a staggering £21,250 on 25 mountain bikes specially imported from the USA. No wonder there has been a massive hike on the police portion of my council tax bill for next year. -Graham Taylor, Uplands Rd, Hollingdean

  • Cycling: Sussex pair pipped by Hants riders

    Hampshire stars Steve Walkling and Simon Berogna were clear winners of the Sussex CA 27-mile two-up team time trial. They have been runners-up in the past two years but made no mistake this time over a tough West Sussex course that included Houghton Hill

  • Pop idolising

    Want to be a pop hero? No one knows better how to do it than Jeff Clark-Meads who has rubbed shoulders with many stars. Now he has written a book on how to become a pop idol do it in the hope fresh young talent will be recognised. Jeff may not have much

  • Familiar cycle

    While most people are still coming to terms with the huge council tax rises, with a large percentage going to Sussex Police, I was amazed (The Argus, March 20) the Force has just paid £850 each for 25 mountain bikes imported from the US at a total of

  • Comment: Nick Nurse on basketball

    We are ready for one of our biggest nights of the season tomorrow and I have high hopes we will be at full strength. The players have gradually been stepping up the pace in practice and Ralph Blalock looks like he will be fit to return after his two-game

  • Listed domes

    Most listed buildings are historic structures dating back a hundred years if not many more centuries. But now the domes of Herstmonceux, near Hailsham, have been given equal status as buildings of architectural and historic importance. They were built

  • Keep it green

    Since 1986, I have been a visitor to Sussex many times and one of the places I was taken to see for its beauty was Falmer. Two of my friends spent part of their childhood there. One has told me of the impending disaster of a new oversized stadium to be

  • Democracy in action

    Many armchair politicians say they would like to run Brighton and Hove City Council to get it the way they want - and then do nothing about it. But now more than 230 people have taken the trouble to be nominated as candidates in the local elections. Most

  • Football: Sussex fume at equaliser

    Paul Young fired a super goal for Sussex but they were left seething by an equaliser they claimed was offside. Young struck from 25 yards in last night's 1-1 Championship draw with Dorset at Wimborne. That looked to be enough until Christian Rigler followed

  • Flexi law ignored

    The majority of firms plan to ignore new flexible working regulations and will continue to follow their own procedures. A report by law firm Linklaters and campaigning charity Parents at Work reveals more than 50 per cent of firms would have to overhaul

  • Sector growth hit by lack of skills

    Construction firms in the South continue to encounter more difficulties in recruiting skilled staff than any other sector of industry. A survey for Lloyds TSB revealed 62 per cent of companies faced recruitment problems during the second half of last

  • Sussex Cup: Holders edge through

    Eastbourne Borough booked their chance to retain the Sussex Senior Cup with a narrow victory over Pagham in the semi-final at Leylands Park last night. The Dr Martens Eastern Division leaders will face Crawley at Priory Lane on May 5 after a 78th-minute

  • Ivar sets sights on Scotland

    Albion defender Ivar Ingimarsson is relishing the prospect of his fifth match in a fortnight, this time on the international stage. He teamed up with the Iceland squad at Heathrow yesterday lunchtime in preparation for Saturday's crucial European Championship

  • Kuipers out for season

    Albion keeper Michel Kuipers faces surgery on his injured thigh next month, ruling him out for the rest of the season. Boss Steve Coppell is resigned to being without the big Dutchman after his comeback was cut short yesterday. Kuipers played only the

  • Grass blaze smokes out estate

    Brighton's Bevendean estate was engulfed in smoke when young vandals set fire to grassland. Two fire crews were called to tackle last night's blaze. A brigade spokesman said: "The smoke filled the entire Bevendean valley."

  • Youth crime scheme flops

    A flagship scheme to crack down on teenage troublemakers has flopped in Brighton and Hove, according to Government figures. Only one parenting order - a measure to tackle bad behaviour in schools - was issued in the city in its first full year. In contrast

  • Police numbers are up

    Sussex Police have managed to swell their ranks by a further 40 officers, figures revealed today. The Home Office said the number of bobbies in the county stood at 2,933 in September last year, up from 2,893 in March 2002. The 1.4 per cent increase was

  • Couple get wedding snaps, a year on

    Over-the-moon bride Lisa Frazer received her wedding photographs yesterday - after a delay of 11 months. We tracked Brighton photographer Shaun Chandler after Mrs Frazer and other disgruntled newlyweds complained about delays. Mr Chandler apologised and

  • Applicants to pay more for job training

    People may be forced to pay more for training courses aimed at making them more employable, Education Secretary Charles Clarke has indicated. However, providers will have to offer more courses that people actually take. About seven million adults have

  • Historic finds at riverfront site

    A treasure trove of finds is helping archaeologists piece together the past of Shoreham's historic port. A cooking pot, complete with the remains of a meal cooked in the 13th Century, is one of the discoveries made at the Ropetackle site. The pot had

  • Train guards' strike still on

    Strikes by train guards are on course to severely disrupt train services tomorrow after the breakdown of last-minute peace talks. RMT union leaders spent almost six hours yesterday talking to representatives from nine train companies, including South

  • Medics must pay to park at work

    Doctors and nurses are being made to pay to park at the hospital where they work. Staff based at Princess Royal Hospital Hospital in Haywards Heath will be charged £12 a year for a parking permit. About 900 permits will be allocated with workers who meet

  • Honour for Sussex observatory

    An East Sussex observatory built in the Fifties has been given listed status. Encased within giant domes, stargazers flock in their thousands to marvel at the sights provided by the Equatorial Group of Telescopes. Their value has been recognised by the

  • Tribute to train fall victim

    A football fan who died after falling under a train while waving goodbye to friends has been described as a wonderful father. Jim Ballantyne, 43, who taught hundreds of youngsters to play the game, slipped at Wivelsfield station on Saturday. He had spent

  • Doomed swans may be saved

    A pair of swans facing the death penalty for straying across a flight path will be saved if airport bosses can agree on an alternative to shooting them. Managers at Shoreham airport have promised to discuss a way out of using their shoot-to-kill licence

  • Two deny 'trampoline' murder

    A man accused of beating his flatmate to death broke down in tears as he told a court how he was shown the lifeless body. Mark Johnstone, 31, said he last saw Robert Kelly, 46, snoring loudly by the fire after an evening spent drinking and chatting. He

  • Fund-raiser saved by machine he donated

    A Sussex pensioner who has spent the last 16 years raising money for heart machines was saved by one when he was rushed to hospital. Frank Lucas, 82, from Burgess Hill, started collecting money for the Mid Sussex Zipper Club, which supports Sussex people

  • Student hypocrisy

    I would like to point out the hypocrisy of the many students involved in the 'peace' demonstrations. Of the many people attacking American establishments such as American Express and McDonald's, how strange it was that many were wearing American-brand

  • Priest accused of preaching racism

    An ousted priest has been accused of stirring up racial hatred by preaching that Islam is a terrorist religion. Father Zakaria Botros Henein has started hosting five-times-weekly internet broadcasts in which he claims the Koran encourages acts of violence

  • Zamora back for Seagulls

    Albion have been boosted by the probable return of injured goal ace Bobby Zamora for the relegation run-in. A second scan has revealed the slight hamstring tear Zamora suffered in last week's defeat at Sheffield United is healing well. Boss Steve Coppell

  • Other Places Exhibition, Permanent Gallery, Brighton

    This new gallery in Bedford Place is dedicated to bringing challenging and innovative contemporary art to the public. As such it will sell not only paintings but also limited edition books made by artists and illustrators as well as fanzines and art magazines

  • False claims

    Students at Blatchington Mill School were leafleted by an anonymous anti-war group and, by now, many of their parents will be aware of the content. Because it claims National Union of Teachers support, I am writing in the hope I can correct the leaflet's

  • Case for hope

    John Parry tells us we must now stop protesting against the war and support 'our' forces who may be killed or injured. The best way to protect our forces and, indeed, those of all nationalities who face death or injury, is to work as hard as possible

  • 'David and Goliath' battle for Falmer

    Villagers trying to defeat Brighton and Hove Albion's stadium plan are involved in a David and Goliath struggle, according to a parish priest. Canon Andrew Robinson, priest of Stanmer with Falmer, said the proposal had caused "extreme agitation" to local

  • King Alfred dilemma

    Well done to all architects on their designs for the King Alfred regeneration. I am loath to pick one as better than the others. Now I duck behind the parapet and wait for the brickbats. -J Leighton, Payne Avenue, Hove

  • Zamora back for Seagulls

    Albion have been boosted by the probable return of injured goal ace Bobby Zamora for the relegation run-in. A second scan has revealed the slight hamstring tear Zamora suffered in last week's defeat at Sheffield United is healing well. Boss Steve Coppell

  • Kuipers out for season

    Albion keeper Michel Kuipers faces surgery on his injured thigh next month, ruling him out for the rest of the season. Boss Steve Coppell is resigned to being without the big Dutchman after his comeback was cut short yesterday. Kuipers played only the

  • Ivar sets sights on Scotland

    Albion defender Ivar Ingimarsson is relishing the prospect of his fifth match in a fortnight, this time on the international stage. He teamed up with the Iceland squad at Heathrow yesterday lunchtime in preparation for Saturday's crucial European Championship

  • The Sage Of Sussex: Adam Trimingham

    If only those old walls of the Brighton Centre could speak, what stories they could tell. What songs they could sing too. Some of the most famous men and women in the world have enraptured audiences here. They include Nelson Mandela, Margaret Thatcher

  • Blaze won't wreck opera group's show

    An operatic group has vowed to continue despite a fire wrecking costumes, props and its rehearsal room just weeks before the opening night. Crawley Operatic Society will perform Singing In The Rain at Crawley's Hawth theatre at the end of next month.

  • Two held over airport cash raid

    Two men have been arrested after an attempt to steal foreign currency at Gatwick Airport today. The currency, thought to be euros and dollars, arrived in the country on an inbound flight yesterday. Two men, posing as security guards, drove a vehicle converted

  • Anxious wait for home closure verdict

    Vulnerable residents of an old people's home in East Sussex face an anxious wait to see whether it will close down. Mr Justice Maurice Kay, after listening to a day-and-a-half of legal argument at London's High Court, reserved his judgement which will

  • Rape trial jury told of row

    An Eastbourne man accused of raping a teenager told police his alleged victim was jealous because he had a new girlfriend. Daniel Jessup, 20, a builder of Petworth Place, Hampden Park, Eastbourne, said the girl "flipped" when she read text messages on

  • Council chiefs pledge crime crackdown

    Council bosses have promised to tackle rising violent crime in Hastings and St Leonards. Home Office figures show that the seaside town has the 11th worst violent crime rate in the country. Council leader Jeremy Birch vowed to stem the growth at a crime

  • Hospital parking fees treble

    Patients and their families will pay up to three times more to park at hospitals in East Sussex. Health trust bosses yesterday agreed to raise charges at the Eastbourne District General Hospital (DGH) and Conquest Hospital in Hastings. From next month

  • Go-ahead for barracks 'village'

    Plans for a modern "urban village" at the derelict Preston Barracks site in Brighton have been approved. City councillors last night gave the green light to a scheme that could create more than 1,000 jobs. A detailed development plan will be produced

  • Drink ban on city streets

    Street drinking is to be banned across Brighton and Hove. Police will be given extra powers to arrest those who refuse to hand over bottles and cans. Councillors last night agreed to apply for permission from the Home Office to extend a pilot scheme,

  • Held in trust

    I see (The Argus, March 19) that the poor old private landlord is receiving a pasting again. The whole idea of deposits being held by third parties is simply unnecessary. In the vast majority of cases, the tenant gets his/her deposit back and, in a large

  • Table Tennis: Sussex go down

    Sussex failed to impress during their last four matches of the County Championship premier division at Grantham and were relegated. After winning the first match 7-3 against Glamorgan, captain Ritchie Venner fancied their gold medal chances. But it was

  • On your bike

    I can't believe Sussex Police has spent a staggering £21,250 on 25 mountain bikes specially imported from the USA. No wonder there has been a massive hike on the police portion of my council tax bill for next year. -Graham Taylor, Uplands Rd, Hollingdean

  • Cycling: Sussex pair pipped by Hants riders

    Hampshire stars Steve Walkling and Simon Berogna were clear winners of the Sussex CA 27-mile two-up team time trial. They have been runners-up in the past two years but made no mistake this time over a tough West Sussex course that included Houghton Hill

  • Basketball: Wilbur calls for Bears fans' help

    Wilbur Johnson does not want to see a single spare seat in the house when Brighton Bears go for title glory tomorrow night. Bears tackle leaders Sheffield Sharks knowing victory will put them in command of the three-way battle for top spot. Johnson took

  • Football: Sussex fume at equaliser

    Paul Young fired a super goal for Sussex but they were left seething by an equaliser they claimed was offside. Young struck from 25 yards in last night's 1-1 Championship draw with Dorset at Wimborne. That looked to be enough until Christian Rigler followed

  • Mark of quality

    Marketing company Sans Frontiere was been awarded Investors in People status by Quality South-East. Audrey Evans, managing director of the Lewes-based firm, said: "We are delighted to have achieved the standard. "It demonstrates to our team the value

  • Flexi law ignored

    The majority of firms plan to ignore new flexible working regulations and will continue to follow their own procedures. A report by law firm Linklaters and campaigning charity Parents at Work reveals more than 50 per cent of firms would have to overhaul

  • Sussex Cup: Holders edge through

    Eastbourne Borough booked their chance to retain the Sussex Senior Cup with a narrow victory over Pagham in the semi-final at Leylands Park last night. The Dr Martens Eastern Division leaders will face Crawley at Priory Lane on May 5 after a 78th-minute

  • Kitson comeback as reserves draw

    Albion's injury-plagued striker Paul Kitson came through a whole game for the reserves as he continued his lengthy recovery in a 1-1 draw at Oxford. Kitson, who has not played for the first team since January following a series of injuries, looked well

  • Kuipers out for season

    Albion keeper Michel Kuipers faces surgery on his injured thigh next month, ruling him out for the rest of the season. Boss Steve Coppell is resigned to being without the big Dutchman after his comeback was cut short yesterday. Kuipers played only the

  • Jeff's textbook for music biz hopefuls

    A Sussex college lecturer has published a book aimed at teaching wannabe pop stars how to make it in the music business. Jeff Clark-Meads has shared a taxi with Jon Bon Jovi, rubbed shoulders with The Corrs and witnessed Sir Cliff Richard being teased

  • Grass blaze smokes out estate

    Brighton's Bevendean estate was engulfed in smoke when young vandals set fire to grassland. Two fire crews were called to tackle last night's blaze. A brigade spokesman said: "The smoke filled the entire Bevendean valley."

  • Couple get wedding snaps, a year on

    Over-the-moon bride Lisa Frazer received her wedding photographs yesterday - after a delay of 11 months. We tracked Brighton photographer Shaun Chandler after Mrs Frazer and other disgruntled newlyweds complained about delays. Mr Chandler apologised and

  • Students' prank fight criticised

    Students set off fire extinguishers and hurled water during a prank fight. Fire alarms at Brighton University's accommodation in Southover Street, Brighton, were triggered and firefighters responded at 4am today. A brigade spokesman said only minor damage

  • BAT besieged by 50 angry 'Ken Clarkes'

    Fifty "Ken Clarkes" gathered in London, wearing face masks of the British American Tobacco deputy chairman. They demanded the company closes the factory it jointly owns with Burma's military dictatorship. They chanted in Burmese outside the BAT headquarters

  • Applicants to pay more for job training

    People may be forced to pay more for training courses aimed at making them more employable, Education Secretary Charles Clarke has indicated. However, providers will have to offer more courses that people actually take. About seven million adults have

  • Money slipping through fingers

    Only three out of ten Britons claim they managed their money well during the past year. Just 29 per cent said they had kept close track of their finances while 11 per cent admitted they had never checked the performance of any of their savings or investments

  • Historic finds at riverfront site

    A treasure trove of finds is helping archaeologists piece together the past of Shoreham's historic port. A cooking pot, complete with the remains of a meal cooked in the 13th Century, is one of the discoveries made at the Ropetackle site. The pot had

  • Pyjama protest over train noise

    Sleepy residents will descend on a station in their pyjamas to protest against the noisy train horns costing them their sleep. Children living near Brighton station are regularly woken by the sound of South Central's new trains approaching a nearby tunnel

  • Train guards' strike still on

    Strikes by train guards are on course to severely disrupt train services tomorrow after the breakdown of last-minute peace talks. RMT union leaders spent almost six hours yesterday talking to representatives from nine train companies, including South

  • Hospital attacks on the up

    Attacks on hospital workers in Brighton, Hove and Mid Sussex have soared in the past year. A National Audit Office (NAO) study released today shows reports of violence against staff has gone up nationally by 13 per cent in the last two years. But the

  • Honour for Sussex observatory

    An East Sussex observatory built in the Fifties has been given listed status. Encased within giant domes, stargazers flock in their thousands to marvel at the sights provided by the Equatorial Group of Telescopes. Their value has been recognised by the

  • Mystery of missing teacher's shopping

    Shopping bags are adding more mystery to the already baffling disappearance of teacher Jane Longhurst. As the search entered its 13th day, police still have no idea what has become of her - or her shopping. Miss Longhurst, 31, was seen by a neighbour

  • Medics must pay to park at work

    Doctors and nurses are being made to pay to park at the hospital where they work. Staff based at Princess Royal Hospital Hospital in Haywards Heath will be charged £12 a year for a parking permit. About 900 permits will be allocated with workers who meet

  • Blaze destroys home

    A couple returned home last night to find their house wrecked by fire and their beloved pet dead. Flames destroyed Michael and Pauline Quigley's kitchen and smoke damaged most of the terraced house. The Quigleys were out of the house, in Meadow Road,

  • Doomed swans may be saved

    A pair of swans facing the death penalty for straying across a flight path will be saved if airport bosses can agree on an alternative to shooting them. Managers at Shoreham airport have promised to discuss a way out of using their shoot-to-kill licence

  • Redundancy served up a refreshing career change

    Matt Keegan likes cocktails so it's no surprise he works in a bar. The 27-year-old has been the bar manager at the St James's Street branch of The Tin Drum since before Christmas after joining the successful bar/restaurant business last May. He started

  • Fund-raiser saved by machine he donated

    A Sussex pensioner who has spent the last 16 years raising money for heart machines was saved by one when he was rushed to hospital. Frank Lucas, 82, from Burgess Hill, started collecting money for the Mid Sussex Zipper Club, which supports Sussex people

  • Knee jerk reactions

    The peace demo had one really useful aspect: I was able to walk into Brighton without being asked to buy the Big Issue or give some change for the first time in ages. The smug-fest in support of a regime that has killed hundreds of thousands of people

  • Student hypocrisy

    I would like to point out the hypocrisy of the many students involved in the 'peace' demonstrations. Of the many people attacking American establishments such as American Express and McDonald's, how strange it was that many were wearing American-brand

  • Priest accused of preaching racism

    An ousted priest has been accused of stirring up racial hatred by preaching that Islam is a terrorist religion. Father Zakaria Botros Henein has started hosting five-times-weekly internet broadcasts in which he claims the Koran encourages acts of violence

  • Without evidence

    Saddam Hussein has been linked with weapons of mass destruction. We attacked without evidence. Saddam Hussein has been linked with major terrorist networks. We attacked without evidence. Add to this the proclaimed future proactive approach to foreign

  • Olive branch

    I was dismayed to hear of the suspension of pupils from Blatchington Mill School by head teacher Mr Hunter. These pupils should be applauded, not suspended. What was more disturbing, was the grotesque rhetoric from an employee at American Express over

  • Other Places Exhibition, Permanent Gallery, Brighton

    This new gallery in Bedford Place is dedicated to bringing challenging and innovative contemporary art to the public. As such it will sell not only paintings but also limited edition books made by artists and illustrators as well as fanzines and art magazines

  • School daze

    I was a pupil at Blatchington Mill School 35 years ago when it was Hove Grammar. I well remember the school organising a talk for the whole upper school by the local Tory MP during a local council election campaign. I remember thinking then how odd this

  • Woman pulled from inferno

    A pensioner came within seconds of being engulfed in flames after a fire broke out in her home. It is believed the blaze started after the woman failed to put a cigarette out properly in the front room of her house in Sherbourne Road, Hangleton, Hove,

  • Fears over airport expansion

    Council chiefs have warned against letting Shoreham Airport expand too much and ruin the lives of nearby residents. The Argus has reported how consultants have started drawing up proposals which would involve many more flights to and from the airport.

  • Major blunder

    War is an ugly business, there can be no success. Going to war is, in itself, a defeat. I am convinced Saddam Hussein is a tyrant who needs rooting out. However, I am quizzical about the motives for this war. China rolled tanks over its students, North

  • Agent provocateurs attacked Town Hall

    The masked individuals reported as responsible for the damage at Brighton Town Hall last week were very 'military' in their body language. Whether they were from a 'private' army or linked to the Blair Government's Home Office is up for speculation. It

  • Labour criticised for using Albion logo

    Football fans have cried foul after councillors were caught using their club's logo for electioneering without permission. Brighton and Hove Albion chairman Dick Knight has joined criticism of Councillor Brian Fitch for including the club's badge in his

  • King Alfred dilemma

    Well done to all architects on their designs for the King Alfred regeneration. I am loath to pick one as better than the others. Now I duck behind the parapet and wait for the brickbats. -J Leighton, Payne Avenue, Hove

  • Leave Brighton Centre

    The Brighton Centre is gorgeous - I can't believe some cretins are going to bulldoze it. Whatever replaces it will just end up looking like a shopping centre or Centre Parcs. Please leave it alone - spend the money on cancer research or something at least

  • Ivar sets sights on Scotland

    Albion defender Ivar Ingimarsson is relishing the prospect of his fifth match in a fortnight, this time on the international stage. He teamed up with the Iceland squad at Heathrow yesterday lunchtime in preparation for Saturday's crucial European Championship

  • The Sage Of Sussex: Adam Trimingham

    If only those old walls of the Brighton Centre could speak, what stories they could tell. What songs they could sing too. Some of the most famous men and women in the world have enraptured audiences here. They include Nelson Mandela, Margaret Thatcher

  • Zamora back for Seagulls

    Albion have been boosted by the probable return of injured goal ace Bobby Zamora for the relegation run-in. A second scan has revealed the slight hamstring tear Zamora suffered in last week's defeat at Sheffield United is healing well. Boss Steve Coppell

  • Two held over airport cash raid

    Two men have been arrested after an attempt to steal foreign currency at Gatwick Airport today. The currency, thought to be euros and dollars, arrived in the country on an inbound flight yesterday. Two men, posing as security guards, drove a vehicle converted

  • Barred war demo pupils appeal

    Pupils who were suspended for taking part in anti-war protests today began their fight to get back into classes. A small group of protesters stood outside Blatchington Mill School in Hove this morning to show solidarity as the teenagers, excluded just

  • Free to speak

    In response to Conservative councillor Geoff Wells (Letters, March 20) and to reassure readers that Craig Turton's letters reflect concerns felt by large numbers of Labour Party supporters, myself included. Indeed, we greatly appreciate the eloquent way

  • New for old

    In reply to N Murphy, Tony Blair was elected because they promised a New Labour. But what did we get? Filthy streets, an almost non-existent National Health Service, over-crowded schools, drug dealers getting small sentences in the courts, beggars in

  • Basketball: Wilbur calls for Bears fans' help

    Wilbur Johnson does not want to see a single spare seat in the house when Brighton Bears go for title glory tomorrow night. Bears tackle leaders Sheffield Sharks knowing victory will put them in command of the three-way battle for top spot. Johnson took

  • Basketball: Blalock fit for showdown

    Brighton Bears' Ralph Blalock has been given the all clear to return to action for tomorrow night's crunch clash with title rivals Sheffield Sharks. The 28-year-old American guard, who has been hampered by a series of injuries in recent weeks, was expected

  • Off the team

    Like Derek Chapman, we too would like to burn our council tax bill with a great publicity photo but we know why there is an extra price to pay and are willing to do so - after all, what choice do we have? We must fight to save the rural setting of our

  • Mark of quality

    Marketing company Sans Frontiere was been awarded Investors in People status by Quality South-East. Audrey Evans, managing director of the Lewes-based firm, said: "We are delighted to have achieved the standard. "It demonstrates to our team the value

  • Redundancy served up a refreshing career change

    Matt Keegan likes cocktails so it's no surprise he works in a bar. The 27-year-old has been the bar manager at the St James's Street branch of The Tin Drum since before Christmas after joining the successful bar/restaurant business last May. He started

  • The claim for Albion support was offside

    I fully agree with the sentiments expressed by David Smart (Letters, March 20) that party politics have no place in football. For the record, nobody at Brighton and Hove Albion gave permission for the Albion logo to be included in election material produced

  • Kitson comeback as reserves draw

    Albion's injury-plagued striker Paul Kitson came through a whole game for the reserves as he continued his lengthy recovery in a 1-1 draw at Oxford. Kitson, who has not played for the first team since January following a series of injuries, looked well

  • Jeff's textbook for music biz hopefuls

    A Sussex college lecturer has published a book aimed at teaching wannabe pop stars how to make it in the music business. Jeff Clark-Meads has shared a taxi with Jon Bon Jovi, rubbed shoulders with The Corrs and witnessed Sir Cliff Richard being teased

  • Med school prepares for young doctors

    Preparations are well under way for the opening in September of a new undergraduate medical school, which will be the first in Sussex. Workmen are rushing around finishing buildings and kitting out laboratories. There is already a buzz around the Falmer

  • Students' prank fight criticised

    Students set off fire extinguishers and hurled water during a prank fight. Fire alarms at Brighton University's accommodation in Southover Street, Brighton, were triggered and firefighters responded at 4am today. A brigade spokesman said only minor damage

  • BAT besieged by 50 angry 'Ken Clarkes'

    Fifty "Ken Clarkes" gathered in London, wearing face masks of the British American Tobacco deputy chairman. They demanded the company closes the factory it jointly owns with Burma's military dictatorship. They chanted in Burmese outside the BAT headquarters

  • Money slipping through fingers

    Only three out of ten Britons claim they managed their money well during the past year. Just 29 per cent said they had kept close track of their finances while 11 per cent admitted they had never checked the performance of any of their savings or investments

  • Pyjama protest over train noise

    Sleepy residents will descend on a station in their pyjamas to protest against the noisy train horns costing them their sleep. Children living near Brighton station are regularly woken by the sound of South Central's new trains approaching a nearby tunnel

  • Hospital attacks on the up

    Attacks on hospital workers in Brighton, Hove and Mid Sussex have soared in the past year. A National Audit Office (NAO) study released today shows reports of violence against staff has gone up nationally by 13 per cent in the last two years. But the

  • OAPs raided by drugs squad

    Police who turned-up at a Mid Sussex house during a drugs raid were greeted by an innocent elderly couple in their 70s. The pensioners were stunned to find eight officers in stab vests and protective masks on their doorstep in quiet Beckett Lane, Langley

  • Mystery of missing teacher's shopping

    Shopping bags are adding more mystery to the already baffling disappearance of teacher Jane Longhurst. As the search entered its 13th day, police still have no idea what has become of her - or her shopping. Miss Longhurst, 31, was seen by a neighbour

  • Call to check in guns

    A firearms amnesty is to be launched in Sussex in a bid to halt the rising tide of gun crime. Police are urging owners to surrender firearms, air guns and replica weapons before new legislation is introduced making unlawful gun possession an offence punishable

  • Knee jerk reactions

    The peace demo had one really useful aspect: I was able to walk into Brighton without being asked to buy the Big Issue or give some change for the first time in ages. The smug-fest in support of a regime that has killed hundreds of thousands of people

  • Without evidence

    Saddam Hussein has been linked with weapons of mass destruction. We attacked without evidence. Saddam Hussein has been linked with major terrorist networks. We attacked without evidence. Add to this the proclaimed future proactive approach to foreign

  • Olive branch

    I was dismayed to hear of the suspension of pupils from Blatchington Mill School by head teacher Mr Hunter. These pupils should be applauded, not suspended. What was more disturbing, was the grotesque rhetoric from an employee at American Express over

  • School daze

    I was a pupil at Blatchington Mill School 35 years ago when it was Hove Grammar. I well remember the school organising a talk for the whole upper school by the local Tory MP during a local council election campaign. I remember thinking then how odd this

  • Woman pulled from inferno

    A pensioner came within seconds of being engulfed in flames after a fire broke out in her home. It is believed the blaze started after the woman failed to put a cigarette out properly in the front room of her house in Sherbourne Road, Hangleton, Hove,

  • Fears over airport expansion

    Council chiefs have warned against letting Shoreham Airport expand too much and ruin the lives of nearby residents. The Argus has reported how consultants have started drawing up proposals which would involve many more flights to and from the airport.

  • Major blunder

    War is an ugly business, there can be no success. Going to war is, in itself, a defeat. I am convinced Saddam Hussein is a tyrant who needs rooting out. However, I am quizzical about the motives for this war. China rolled tanks over its students, North

  • Insignificant

    David McNiven from Burgess Hill (Letters, March 25) states the pulling down and subsequent tearing up of the US flag was 'one of the most disgusting and ignorant scenes' he had ever experienced. Well David, perhaps you should get out a bit more. Try opening

  • Agent provocateurs attacked Town Hall

    The masked individuals reported as responsible for the damage at Brighton Town Hall last week were very 'military' in their body language. Whether they were from a 'private' army or linked to the Blair Government's Home Office is up for speculation. It

  • Tenant help

    Private-sector tenants are often unsure how to recover their deposits from rogue landlords (The Argus, March 19). Help is available from Brighton and Hove City Council. Guidelines on how tenants can recover their deposits are available from the council's

  • Labour criticised for using Albion logo

    Football fans have cried foul after councillors were caught using their club's logo for electioneering without permission. Brighton and Hove Albion chairman Dick Knight has joined criticism of Councillor Brian Fitch for including the club's badge in his

  • Points to ponder

    You report (The Argus, March 24) the 2020 Community Partnership group has identified eight priority areas which Brighton and Hove City Council urgently needs to tackle. These include: Enterprise, safety, health, inclusivity and affordability. Does this

  • Seek Coldean's interests

    We live in Coldean, a community without a community centre. Pat Hawkes is interested in Hollingdean getting a centre. Tehmtan Framroze is interested in a community centre for ethnic minorities in Portslade while we, in Coldean, get nothing at all. The

  • Leave Brighton Centre

    The Brighton Centre is gorgeous - I can't believe some cretins are going to bulldoze it. Whatever replaces it will just end up looking like a shopping centre or Centre Parcs. Please leave it alone - spend the money on cancer research or something at least

  • Ask for help

    As someone who has rented property in Brighton and Hove for more than 20 years, I read 'Letting rogues keep deposits' (The Argus, March 19) with great interest. Three housemates and I lost more than £700 when one of the so-called 'reputable' agents quoted

  • Kitson comeback as reserves draw

    Albion's injury-plagued striker Paul Kitson came through a whole game for the reserves as he continued his lengthy recovery in a 1-1 draw at Oxford. Kitson, who has not played for the first team since January following a series of injuries, looked well

  • Zamora back for Seagulls

    Albion have been boosted by the probable return of injured goal ace Bobby Zamora for the relegation run-in. A second scan has revealed the slight hamstring tear Zamora suffered in last week's defeat at Sheffield United is healing well. Boss Steve Coppell

  • Fund-raiser saved by machine he donated

    A Mid Sussex pensioner who has spent the last 16 years raising money for heart machines was saved by one when he was rushed to hospital. Frank Lucas, 82, from Burgess Hill, started collecting money for the Mid Sussex Zipper Club, which supports Sussex

  • Tribute to train fall victim

    A football fan who died after falling under a train while waving goodbye to friends has been described as a wonderful father. Jim Ballantyne, 43, who taught hundreds of youngsters to play the game, slipped at Wivelsfield station on Saturday. He had spent

  • OAPs raided by drugs squad

    Police who turned-up at a Mid Sussex house during a drugs raid were greeted by an innocent elderly couple in their 70s. The pensioners were stunned to find eight officers in stab vests and protective masks on their doorstep in quiet Beckett Lane, Langley

  • Barred war demo pupils appeal

    Pupils who were suspended for taking part in anti-war protests today began their fight to get back into classes. A small group of protesters stood outside Blatchington Mill School in Hove this morning to show solidarity as the teenagers, excluded just

  • Free to speak

    In response to Conservative councillor Geoff Wells (Letters, March 20) and to reassure readers that Craig Turton's letters reflect concerns felt by large numbers of Labour Party supporters, myself included. Indeed, we greatly appreciate the eloquent way

  • New for old

    In reply to N Murphy, Tony Blair was elected because they promised a New Labour. But what did we get? Filthy streets, an almost non-existent National Health Service, over-crowded schools, drug dealers getting small sentences in the courts, beggars in

  • Why I voted

    Reading Mr Murphy's letter (The Argus, March 24) prompted me to recall just why I and many other people voted for Tony Blair. I did not vote for Mr Blair to invade Iraq (we've still not sorted Northern Ireland), I did not vote for Mr Blair to charge our

  • Pop idolising

    Want to be a pop hero? No one knows better how to do it than Jeff Clark-Meads who has rubbed shoulders with many stars. Now he has written a book on how to become a pop idol do it in the hope fresh young talent will be recognised. Jeff may not have much

  • Familiar cycle

    While most people are still coming to terms with the huge council tax rises, with a large percentage going to Sussex Police, I was amazed (The Argus, March 20) the Force has just paid £850 each for 25 mountain bikes imported from the US at a total of

  • Comment: Nick Nurse on basketball

    We are ready for one of our biggest nights of the season tomorrow and I have high hopes we will be at full strength. The players have gradually been stepping up the pace in practice and Ralph Blalock looks like he will be fit to return after his two-game

  • Listed domes

    Most listed buildings are historic structures dating back a hundred years if not many more centuries. But now the domes of Herstmonceux, near Hailsham, have been given equal status as buildings of architectural and historic importance. They were built

  • Keep it green

    Since 1986, I have been a visitor to Sussex many times and one of the places I was taken to see for its beauty was Falmer. Two of my friends spent part of their childhood there. One has told me of the impending disaster of a new oversized stadium to be

  • Basketball: Blalock fit for showdown

    Brighton Bears' Ralph Blalock has been given the all clear to return to action for tomorrow night's crunch clash with title rivals Sheffield Sharks. The 28-year-old American guard, who has been hampered by a series of injuries in recent weeks, was expected

  • Democracy in action

    Many armchair politicians say they would like to run Brighton and Hove City Council to get it the way they want - and then do nothing about it. But now more than 230 people have taken the trouble to be nominated as candidates in the local elections. Most

  • Off the team

    Like Derek Chapman, we too would like to burn our council tax bill with a great publicity photo but we know why there is an extra price to pay and are willing to do so - after all, what choice do we have? We must fight to save the rural setting of our

  • Redundancy served up a refreshing career change

    Matt Keegan likes cocktails so it's no surprise he works in a bar. The 27-year-old has been the bar manager at the St James's Street branch of The Tin Drum since before Christmas after joining the successful bar/restaurant business last May. He started

  • Sector growth hit by lack of skills

    Construction firms in the South continue to encounter more difficulties in recruiting skilled staff than any other sector of industry. A survey for Lloyds TSB revealed 62 per cent of companies faced recruitment problems during the second half of last

  • The claim for Albion support was offside

    I fully agree with the sentiments expressed by David Smart (Letters, March 20) that party politics have no place in football. For the record, nobody at Brighton and Hove Albion gave permission for the Albion logo to be included in election material produced

  • Ivar sets sights on Scotland

    Albion defender Ivar Ingimarsson is relishing the prospect of his fifth match in a fortnight, this time on the international stage. He teamed up with the Iceland squad at Heathrow yesterday lunchtime in preparation for Saturday's crucial European Championship

  • Med school prepares for young doctors

    Preparations are well under way for the opening in September of a new undergraduate medical school, which will be the first in Sussex. Workmen are rushing around finishing buildings and kitting out laboratories. There is already a buzz around the Falmer

  • Youth crime scheme flops

    A flagship scheme to crack down on teenage troublemakers has flopped in Brighton and Hove, according to Government figures. Only one parenting order - a measure to tackle bad behaviour in schools - was issued in the city in its first full year. In contrast

  • Police numbers are up

    Sussex Police have managed to swell their ranks by a further 40 officers, figures revealed today. The Home Office said the number of bobbies in the county stood at 2,933 in September last year, up from 2,893 in March 2002. The 1.4 per cent increase was

  • Medics must pay to park at work

    Doctors and nurses are being made to pay to park at the hospital where they work. Staff based at Princess Royal Hospital Hospital in Haywards Heath will be charged £12 a year for a parking permit. About 900 permits will be allocated with workers who meet

  • Tribute to train fall victim

    A football fan who died after falling under a train while waving goodbye to friends has been described as a wonderful father. Jim Ballantyne, 43, who taught hundreds of youngsters to play the game, slipped at Wivelsfield station on Saturday. He had spent

  • OAPs raided by drugs squad

    Police who turned-up at a Mid Sussex house during a drugs raid were greeted by an innocent elderly couple in their 70s. The pensioners were stunned to find eight officers in stab vests and protective masks on their doorstep in quiet Beckett Lane, Langley

  • Call to check in guns

    A firearms amnesty is to be launched in Sussex in a bid to halt the rising tide of gun crime. Police are urging owners to surrender firearms, air guns and replica weapons before new legislation is introduced making unlawful gun possession an offence punishable

  • Two deny 'trampoline' murder

    A man accused of beating his flatmate to death broke down in tears as he told a court how he was shown the lifeless body. Mark Johnstone, 31, said he last saw Robert Kelly, 46, snoring loudly by the fire after an evening spent drinking and chatting. He