An obsessed fan who bombarded violinist Vanessa Mae with letters and kept a diary of her movements has been ordered never to contact her again. Balding David Martin, 56, wrote her about four letters a month for two years and tried to deliver many of them
Adam Trimingham highlights the serious problem of under-used churches in Brighton and Hove (The Argus, December 18). I share his concern - especially over All Saints and St Peter's, which have architectural merit and are of strategic importance. However
A street collection held in Worthing on Saturday, November 29, on behalf of Britain's leading veterinary charity, PDSA, raised £119.44. This money will contribute towards the free veterinary treatment of pets owned by those on low incomes and receiving
I cannot believe what I am reading in The Argus. Steve Fuller (Letters, December 23) says we should restore the West Pier. But there is nothing left which is worthy of restoration. This work should have been carried out years ago and, as an artist whose
I was appalled and horrified to read of the "squirrel cull" at the chapel of Portslade Cemetery (The Argus, December 17). The so-called godly staff of this chapel seem to have forgotten the true meaning of their faith. Have they forgotten the words of
Mr LJ MacIntosh's letter (December 18) would be just another complaint about parking were it not for the curious claim that "the people of West Sussex do not have to put up with this from their council so why should we in East Sussex?" I have news for
Parents Clare Knight and Greg Curl had the Christmas present they had been dreaming of - being reunited with their tiny son, Harrison. The infant weighed just 2lb when he was born three months premature in November. The couple endured a 250-mile trip
In response to Ian Manders's suggestion that the West Pier should be replaced with a giant wind turbine (Letters, December 22), may I make the following points: 1. Should our plans for the restoration fail (and they will not) the money currently earmarked
Brighton and Hove's roads are jammed. This time of year more and more people pour into the city centre. Yet the buses seem no busier than usual despite calls by the council to "leave your car at home". Why? The answer is simple: It's still cheaper to
It was interesting to learn of the playing cards designed with some MPs' names on. It was good to see Hove MP Ivor Caplin getting a card, as he is unlikely to have received many others. If only someone could design a set for Brighton and Hove City Council
Christmas is a holy time for resolving conflicts. Conflicts are born from the doubts which our mind creates. The doubts lead to fear, which knocks our self confidence and, in turn, leads us to adopt a defensive or aggressive behaviour in order to protect
I am a paramedic with the Sussex Ambulance Service NHS Trust, stationed at the police helicopter/ambulance at Shoreham Airport. I was moved by the following email I received from an organisation called Mothers Against Drink Drivers: I went to a party,
Crawley stayed on the tails of premier leaders Weymouth with an excellent 3-1 victory over Havant and Waterlooville at Westleigh Park. Reds boss Francis Vines was delighted and picked out Charlie MacDonald for special praise. Vines said: "It is happy
Homeowners were on flood alert today after 50mm of rain fell in just eight hours overnight. The downpour followed a weekend of torrential rain which has left rivers on the verge of bursting their banks. The Environment Agency today issued a formal flood
Bognor rounded off 2003 with a premier division victory at Basing-stoke although they were indebted to keeper Craig Stoner for the 1-0 scoreline. Stoner had a splendid game as Basingstoke dominated with Neville Roach, leading scorer Craig McAllister and
City taxi drivers want to almost double the extra fee they charge for cabs after closing time. The increase in the surcharge from £1 to £1.80 would put night-time fares in Brighton and Hove among the highest in England. Cabbies argue the rise would encourage
Is it my imagination or would other people agree that Hove MP Ivor Caplin would attend the opening of my mine or anyone else's front door if there was a chance of getting his photo in the paper or on television? On the other hand, when it comes to issues
Worthing boss Alan Pook believes the decision to abandon the derby against Lewes was a disgrace. Rebels were 2-0 up with 22 minutes to go in front of one of the biggest Woodside Road crowds for years, 1,125, when referee Ian Woodward called the game off
In recent times, Brighton's music scene has been best known for the big beats of Fatboy Slim and folk-rock of The Levellers. But for 25 years a dedicated group of singers has brought the sounds of the Welsh valleys to the Sussex coast. To mark a harmonious
Parents across Sussex will feel reassured that Sussex Police are to review their system of checks on all employees with access to children (The Argus, December 18). The conviction of Ian Huntley and his past history are alarming and all the children at
Before this Boxing Day feast it would have been unthinkable, but Leon Knight's place is suddenly under threat. Albion's suspended top scorer looked on enviously as his team-mates cantered to their biggest victory since Watford were beaten by the same
Albion goal hero John Piercy celebrated like Alan Shearer on Boxing Day after his team-mates dubbed him Alan Sheila. Piercy mimicked the Newcastle and former England marksman following the first of two goals in the 4-0 destruction of nine-man Wycombe
Albion's away day blues are threatening to destroy their challenge for an immediate return to Division One. Another narrow defeat on the road has cost them valuable ground in the race for automatic promotion. The Seagulls have now lost away in the League
Burgess Hill manager Gary Croydon fears he will struggle to keep frontmen Steve Harper and Nicky Sullivan after their starring roles in the 6-2 thumping of Hastings United. Young guns Harper and Sullivan bagged a brace apiece while skipper Ben Andrews
Fuel thieves abandoned their car at a petrol station and fled on foot after a quick-thinking attendant snatched the keys from the ignition. Ramesh Babu, 30, became suspicious when he noticed a man filling his car who appeared to be avoiding facing the
The trade union Amicus has launched a drive to recognise the "UK's best employers" as part of a campaign to improve fairness at work. Amicus, which represents 1.1 million workers, said it wanted to reward companies with good industrial relations, decent
A new device is being tested to help make police car chases a thing of the past. Sussex officer Superintendent Jim Hammond, who chairs an Association of Chief Police Officers (ACPO) technology working group, is investigating the possibility of stopping
New communal rubbish bins will spoil Regency and Victorian streets, conservationists claim. Brighton and Hove City Council is starting a trial of the bins early next year to reduce rubbish in roads. But the Montpelier and Clifton Hill Association has
Barclays Bank officials have promised to limit large-scale job losses if it decides to move part of its operation from East Sussex to India. Up to 350 jobs are threatened under plans to switch the bank's sales and finance centre from its Hastings base
Parts of Sussex have been put on flood alert after a weekend of torrential downpours. Rain and wind left roofs leaking and overflowing drains flooded roads. The Environment Agency has issued a flood warning in East Sussex. Houses were affected over the
Residents are facing a "winter of discontent" over controversial writer Julie Burchill's plans to sell her home to developers. Ms Burchill and her neighbours have agreed to sell their homes for about £1million each to make way for 108 new flats. The four
Huntsmen tipped their riding hats and smiled at animal rights protesters shouting abuse before their Boxing Day meet. Animal rights campaigners arrived early yesterday morning to get a prime position in the centre of Lewes for the annual event. The group
Albion manager Mark McGhee will study video evidence before deciding whether to appeal against another red card for Nathan Jones, which will rule the Welshman out for four matches. Jones was sent off by referee Steve Tanner for a tackle on Matt Hewlett
Albion goal hero John Piercy celebrated like Alan Shearer on Boxing Day after his team-mates dubbed him Alan Sheila. Piercy mimicked the Newcastle and former England marksman following the first of two goals in the 4-0 destruction of nine-man Wycombe
A bigamist known as the Black Widow may have used the diabetes drug insulin to induce a coma in her husband before murdering him, it has emerged. Police believe it is likely that Dena Thompson, a diabetic, gave Julian Webb a cake laced with the drug to
A new device is being tested to help make police car chases a thing of the past. Sussex officer Superintendent Jim Hammond, who chairs an Association of Chief Police Officers (ACPO) technology working group, is investigating the possibility of stopping
An inquest is due to be opened this week into the death of a motorist whose Land Rover was in a collision with a coach load of Jehovah's Witnesses. Francis Oakley, 32, from Bramley, Surrey, was killed in the crash, which left more than coach 50 passengers
CST, a little-known form of alternative therapy, is beginning to become more popular but most people still have no idea what it is about. Cordula Hallensleben is a trained doctor but has always had an interest in alternative treatments such as acupuncture
Former soldier Lionel James will be seeing in the new year for the first time in more than seven years - thanks to his eye tooth. The retired soldier who travelled the world in his 22-year-career has never been able to see his youngest grandchild, Phoebe
The engraved windows at the Lewes Road tram depot should be saved as it would appear the building is to be demolished. They are works of art and a part of Brighton's history. -Reg Moores, Brighton
In reply to Reg Jenkins (Letters, December 20) I say weep not at the sight of Saddam Hussein being inspected by a gloved medic for lice and other infestations. The US army was paying him back for his treatment of the two RAF officers, Flt Lieutenants
Barclays Bank officials have promised to limit large-scale job losses if it decides to move part of its operation from East Sussex to India. Up to 350 jobs are threatened under plans to switch the bank's sales and finance centre from its Hastings base
I can only agree with Somerhill Road residents when they say the character of Hove is being changed and express concern about the increase in traffic if perfectly good houses are yet again bulldozed to put up a huge block of flats (The Argus, December
The following is an extract from the only surviving volume of the local constable's report book from April 1822 - December 1823, which was presented to the Sussex Archaeological Society in the 1970s. "Most offences were of drunkenness by both men and
Brighton and Hove City Council planning committee's approval of an application to expand the crypt at St George's Church to create space for new childcare facilities can be seen as yet another example of the city's disregard for the welfare of young children
An obsessed fan who bombarded violinist Vanessa Mae with letters and kept a diary of her movements has been ordered never to contact her again. Balding David Martin, 56, wrote her about four letters a month for two years and tried to deliver many of them
Before Christmas I was given a flyer in Brighton promising me a free present if I visited a web site. When I logged on, with my young children watching, to collect it, to my utter disgust it was a suicide bombing Santa game. This game is even for sale
I cannot believe what I am reading in The Argus. Steve Fuller (Letters, December 23) says we should restore the West Pier. But there is nothing left which is worthy of restoration. This work should have been carried out years ago and, as an artist whose
One of your readers, David Collings, sent you a photograph of his family's fishmonger and poultry shop, decked out with a Christmas display of turkeys, chickens and so on (The Argus, December 13). He asked if anyone knew how this was done and if it was
Brighton and Hove's roads are jammed. This time of year more and more people pour into the city centre. Yet the buses seem no busier than usual despite calls by the council to "leave your car at home". Why? The answer is simple: It's still cheaper to
It was interesting to learn of the playing cards designed with some MPs' names on. It was good to see Hove MP Ivor Caplin getting a card, as he is unlikely to have received many others. If only someone could design a set for Brighton and Hove City Council
Bins will be left unemptied in Brighton and Hove as dustmen threaten non co-operation over a proposed new year shake up of collection rounds. Union leaders say crews will not be able to complete their rounds. CityClean, which runs Brighton and Hove Council's
Christmas is a holy time for resolving conflicts. Conflicts are born from the doubts which our mind creates. The doubts lead to fear, which knocks our self confidence and, in turn, leads us to adopt a defensive or aggressive behaviour in order to protect
The closure of East Brighton College of Media Arts (Comart) is yet another council cock-up. There is absolutely no doubt it is being closed to raise cash for the council and nothing else. Bad management, bad decisions and panic by councillors have condemned
I'm fed up with having my motor covered in salt and grit from those darn gritter trucks now the roads are icy. Why should I have to worry about paint chips from the grit and the corrosive effect of salt just because of inconsiderate two-wheel drive car
Four were sent off as Rye and Iden United completed a hat-trick of victories with a 4-1 win at home to St Leonards in their division one derby. Rye's Shaun Loft went on 50 minutes for elbowing. Host keeper John Gardner and Saints centre-back Dave Minnis
I am a paramedic with the Sussex Ambulance Service NHS Trust, stationed at the police helicopter/ambulance at Shoreham Airport. I was moved by the following email I received from an organisation called Mothers Against Drink Drivers: I went to a party,
Crawley stayed on the tails of premier leaders Weymouth with an excellent 3-1 victory over Havant and Waterlooville at Westleigh Park. Reds boss Francis Vines was delighted and picked out Charlie MacDonald for special praise. Vines said: "It is happy
The spread of disease through hospital bugs brings to mind the World Health Organisation's statement that 90 per cent of Africa's diseases would disappear if the population were to wash their hands before each meal. Their huge problem is, of course, not
Neil Murfin fired four goals as Chichester City United stretched their lead in division one to nine points. His goals helped crush hosts Sidlesham 8-1 on a heavy pitch in Chi's second derby victory over the holiday following a 6-1 demolition of Selsey
Bognor rounded off 2003 with a premier division victory at Basing-stoke although they were indebted to keeper Craig Stoner for the 1-0 scoreline. Stoner had a splendid game as Basingstoke dominated with Neville Roach, leading scorer Craig McAllister and
Albion's away day blues are threatening to destroy their challenge for an immediate return to Division One. Another narrow defeat on the road has cost them valuable ground in the race for automatic promotion. The Seagulls have now lost away in the League
Before this Boxing Day feast it would have been unthinkable, but Leon Knight's place is suddenly under threat. Albion's suspended top scorer looked on enviously as his team-mates cantered to their biggest victory since Watford were beaten by the same
City taxi drivers want to almost double the extra fee they charge for cabs after closing time. The increase in the surcharge from £1 to £1.80 would put night-time fares in Brighton and Hove among the highest in England. Cabbies argue the rise would encourage
Worthing boss Alan Pook believes the decision to abandon the derby against Lewes was a disgrace. Rebels were 2-0 up with 22 minutes to go in front of one of the biggest Woodside Road crowds for years, 1,125, when referee Ian Woodward called the game off
In recent times, Brighton's music scene has been best known for the big beats of Fatboy Slim and folk-rock of The Levellers. But for 25 years a dedicated group of singers has brought the sounds of the Welsh valleys to the Sussex coast. To mark a harmonious
Parents across Sussex will feel reassured that Sussex Police are to review their system of checks on all employees with access to children (The Argus, December 18). The conviction of Ian Huntley and his past history are alarming and all the children at
Bears 89 MK Lions 76: The stage is set for domestic glory in 2004 after Brighton Bears went into the new year on a high. That is the belief of skipper Randy Duck, and no doubt those alongside him, after Bears came good late on to score a ninth successive
Before this Boxing Day feast it would have been unthinkable, but Leon Knight's place is suddenly under threat. Albion's suspended top scorer looked on enviously as his team-mates cantered to their biggest victory since Watford were beaten by the same
Albion goal hero John Piercy celebrated like Alan Shearer on Boxing Day after his team-mates dubbed him Alan Sheila. Piercy mimicked the Newcastle and former England marksman following the first of two goals in the 4-0 destruction of nine-man Wycombe
Albion manager Mark McGhee will study video evidence before deciding whether to appeal against another red card for Nathan Jones, which will rule the Welshman out for four matches. Jones was sent off by referee Steve Tanner for a tackle on Matt Hewlett
Burgess Hill manager Gary Croydon fears he will struggle to keep frontmen Steve Harper and Nicky Sullivan after their starring roles in the 6-2 thumping of Hastings United. Young guns Harper and Sullivan bagged a brace apiece while skipper Ben Andrews
Fuel thieves abandoned their car at a petrol station and fled on foot after a quick-thinking attendant snatched the keys from the ignition. Ramesh Babu, 30, became suspicious when he noticed a man filling his car who appeared to be avoiding facing the
A new device is being tested to help make police car chases a thing of the past. Sussex officer Superintendent Jim Hammond, who chairs an Association of Chief Police Officers (ACPO) technology working group, is investigating the possibility of stopping
Three in every ten children in Sussex have missing, decayed or filled teeth, it was revealed today. Liberal Democrats blamed a shortage of NHS dentists. The party claimed many families were unable to get treatment unless they went private - leading to
New communal rubbish bins will spoil Regency and Victorian streets, conservationists claim. Brighton and Hove City Council is starting a trial of the bins early next year to reduce rubbish in roads. But the Montpelier and Clifton Hill Association has
Shop assistants do not need to ask Peter Looby if he has a loyalty card - his frank response is emblazoned across his chest. The T-shirt, which he designed, states simply, "No. I haven't got a ****ing loyalty card!". Since setting up the mail order sideline
Barclays Bank officials have promised to limit large-scale job losses if it decides to move part of its operation from East Sussex to India. Up to 350 jobs are threatened under plans to switch the bank's sales and finance centre from its Hastings base
Parts of Sussex have been put on flood alert after a weekend of torrential downpours. Rain and wind left roofs leaking and overflowing drains flooded roads. The Environment Agency has issued a flood warning in East Sussex. Houses were affected over the
A Catholic grandfather has received support from around the world for his campaign to ban burning effigies of Pope Paul V at Lewes's annual bonfire celebrations. Joe O'Keefe, from nearby Newick, has received more than 100 letters in the past month supporting
Huntsmen tipped their riding hats and smiled at animal rights protesters shouting abuse before their Boxing Day meet. Animal rights campaigners arrived early yesterday morning to get a prime position in the centre of Lewes for the annual event. The group
Albion manager Mark McGhee will study video evidence before deciding whether to appeal against another red card for Nathan Jones, which will rule the Welshman out for four matches. Jones was sent off by referee Steve Tanner for a tackle on Matt Hewlett
Barclays Bank officials have promised to limit large-scale job losses if it decides to move part of its operation from East Sussex to India. Up to 350 jobs are threatened under plans to switch the bank's sales and finance centre from its Hastings base
It amazes me how, at Christmas, most people get drawn into the frenzy of buying too much of everything. The supermarket trolleys are overflowing with all manner of foods and drinks - you would think this was the last chance ever to stock up. Our digestive
Former soldier Lionel James will be seeing in the new year for the first time in more than seven years - thanks to his eye tooth. The retired soldier who travelled the world in his 22-year-career has never been able to see his youngest grandchild, Phoebe
The engraved windows at the Lewes Road tram depot should be saved as it would appear the building is to be demolished. They are works of art and a part of Brighton's history. -Reg Moores, Brighton
Barclays Bank officials have promised to limit large-scale job losses if it decides to move part of its operation from East Sussex to India. Up to 350 jobs are threatened under plans to switch the bank's sales and finance centre from its Hastings base
Driving along Brighton and Hove seafront has become easier now the busy summer months are gone. Back then, I dreaded the daily routine of getting stuck in the heat and exhaust-filled jams. Sitting in my sticky car, I mused on the possibility of alternative
Brighton and Hove City Council planning committee's approval of an application to expand the crypt at St George's Church to create space for new childcare facilities can be seen as yet another example of the city's disregard for the welfare of young children
I have just received the latest publicity from The Children's Society. It says: "In 2004 we will be initiating changes in the way we support direct work. These will make us even more effective." However, these changes will not make them more effective
A document from the DVLA says there is a fine of £80 if a car is not taxed on time and a subsequent minimum fine of £1,000. There has been an untaxed car in Middle Road, Preston Park, since July. The local authority and police are aware but will not take
Before Christmas I was given a flyer in Brighton promising me a free present if I visited a web site. When I logged on, with my young children watching, to collect it, to my utter disgust it was a suicide bombing Santa game. This game is even for sale
One of your readers, David Collings, sent you a photograph of his family's fishmonger and poultry shop, decked out with a Christmas display of turkeys, chickens and so on (The Argus, December 13). He asked if anyone knew how this was done and if it was
As the year draws to a close, may we thank everyone who has so generously supported the Martlets Hospice throughout 2003. In raising funds for the work of the Martlets, they have enabled our staff and volunteers to care for terminally ill patients and
Does Councillor Craig Turton write his letters in the garden? He's certainly digging a deeper hole for himself. Before taking up his pen to discuss Hove Library again, he would do well to borrow a book on logic. He now tells us (Letters, December 18)
People who can afford second homes should pay full council tax. If somebody owns two cars they don't get 50 per cent discount on insurance, road tax or fuel. If they don't want to pay, they shouldn't buy. -Ian Hunt, Worthing
Airlines today expressed concern at plans to deploy armed sky marshals on transatlantic flights from Gatwick. Worries over the Government's anti-terrorist initiative follow strong opposition from the pilots' union Balpa. A British Airways spokeswoman
Bins will be left unemptied in Brighton and Hove as dustmen threaten non co-operation over a proposed new year shake up of collection rounds. Union leaders say crews will not be able to complete their rounds. CityClean, which runs Brighton and Hove Council's
Shoppers are expected to continue a High Street spending frenzy this week as Sussex retailers enjoy some belated festive cheer. Sluggish pre-Christmas sales left many shops with large quantities of unsold stock as customers waited for the inevitable fall
The closure of East Brighton College of Media Arts (Comart) is yet another council cock-up. There is absolutely no doubt it is being closed to raise cash for the council and nothing else. Bad management, bad decisions and panic by councillors have condemned
I'm fed up with having my motor covered in salt and grit from those darn gritter trucks now the roads are icy. Why should I have to worry about paint chips from the grit and the corrosive effect of salt just because of inconsiderate two-wheel drive car
Can anybody from the police, Brighton and Hove City Council or Highways Committee please explain the legality of the newly dedicated red cycle lane? This picture is of the bottom of Elm Grove after months of chaos and massive disruption to put cycle lanes
Four were sent off as Rye and Iden United completed a hat-trick of victories with a 4-1 win at home to St Leonards in their division one derby. Rye's Shaun Loft went on 50 minutes for elbowing. Host keeper John Gardner and Saints centre-back Dave Minnis
The spread of disease through hospital bugs brings to mind the World Health Organisation's statement that 90 per cent of Africa's diseases would disappear if the population were to wash their hands before each meal. Their huge problem is, of course, not
Neil Murfin fired four goals as Chichester City United stretched their lead in division one to nine points. His goals helped crush hosts Sidlesham 8-1 on a heavy pitch in Chi's second derby victory over the holiday following a 6-1 demolition of Selsey
I was interested to read that Lewes MP Norman Baker had taken such an interest in whether any of the directors of Brighton and Hove Albion had met with the Deputy Prime Minister or any ministers in his department since January 2002 (The Argus, December
Albion's away day blues are threatening to destroy their challenge for an immediate return to Division One. Another narrow defeat on the road has cost them valuable ground in the race for automatic promotion. The Seagulls have now lost away in the League
Before this Boxing Day feast it would have been unthinkable, but Leon Knight's place is suddenly under threat. Albion's suspended top scorer looked on enviously as his team-mates cantered to their biggest victory since Watford were beaten by the same
Sullivan Phillips came up with one of the plays of the season as Bears put rivals London Towers in their place on Saturday. They came back from 11 points down for a 93-89 success which was more comfortable than the final scoreline suggests. With Kendrick
I live in London, having moved here from New York in 1990. I'm contemplating a move to Brighton, where the wonderful human-scale environment has always attracted me. I'm therefore deeply disturbed by the prospect of a new plague of high-rise tower blocks
Bears 89 MK Lions 76: The stage is set for domestic glory in 2004 after Brighton Bears went into the new year on a high. That is the belief of skipper Randy Duck, and no doubt those alongside him, after Bears came good late on to score a ninth successive
The big guns made it another clean sweep of the honours in the Boxing Day road races in Preston Park. There was no hangover for last year's winners, all four of whom were triumphant again as they dished out the medicine to their rivals in a repeat of
Albion manager Mark McGhee will study video evidence before deciding whether to appeal against another red card for Nathan Jones, which will rule the Welshman out for four matches. Jones was sent off by referee Steve Tanner for a tackle on Matt Hewlett
The Angel of Mostar has been having trouble with halos this Christmas. Sally Becker has rescued dozens of children from war-torn Bosnia and Kosovo and helped hundreds more people through her aid work. She has survived being shot, put in prison and tortured
Three in every ten children in Sussex have missing, decayed or filled teeth, it was revealed today. Liberal Democrats blamed a shortage of NHS dentists. The party claimed many families were unable to get treatment unless they went private - leading to
Shop assistants do not need to ask Peter Looby if he has a loyalty card - his frank response is emblazoned across his chest. The T-shirt, which he designed, states simply, "No. I haven't got a ****ing loyalty card!". Since setting up the mail order sideline
Shoppers are expected to continue a High Street spending frenzy this week as Sussex retailers enjoy some belated festive cheer. Sluggish pre-Christmas sales left many shops with large quantities of unsold stock as customers waited for the inevitable fall
A Catholic grandfather has received support from around the world for his campaign to ban burning effigies of Pope Paul V at Lewes's annual bonfire celebrations. Joe O'Keefe, from nearby Newick, has received more than 100 letters in the past month supporting
Passengers who spit at railway staff could find themselves in court as part of a new "get tough" initiative. Rail operator South Central is preparing to issue its Sussex-based staff with DNA testing kits so abusive passengers can be tracked down through
Kind-hearted readers helped to brighten Christmas for mugging victim Eddie Walters. The 71-year-old, who suffers from leukaemia and has been told he only has six months to live, was beaten and robbed outside a supermarket two weeks ago. His wallet, which
It amazes me how, at Christmas, most people get drawn into the frenzy of buying too much of everything. The supermarket trolleys are overflowing with all manner of foods and drinks - you would think this was the last chance ever to stock up. Our digestive
After the Christmas celebrations, don't we all yearn for a new body to bring in the New Year? The easiest way to start a gentle detox process is to eat less comfort food (bread, biscuits, sweets) and more fruit between meals. Use up any leftover meat
The Voice of The Argus (December 20) says the proposal for four-storey houses in Brunswick Street West "will provide much needed housing". But four-storey houses with roof gardens are likely to be luxury houses, rather than affordable ones. Obviously
Driving along Brighton and Hove seafront has become easier now the busy summer months are gone. Back then, I dreaded the daily routine of getting stuck in the heat and exhaust-filled jams. Sitting in my sticky car, I mused on the possibility of alternative
I have just received the latest publicity from The Children's Society. It says: "In 2004 we will be initiating changes in the way we support direct work. These will make us even more effective." However, these changes will not make them more effective
Adam Trimingham highlights the serious problem of under-used churches in Brighton and Hove (The Argus, December 18). I share his concern - especially over All Saints and St Peter's, which have architectural merit and are of strategic importance. However
A document from the DVLA says there is a fine of £80 if a car is not taxed on time and a subsequent minimum fine of £1,000. There has been an untaxed car in Middle Road, Preston Park, since July. The local authority and police are aware but will not take
A street collection held in Worthing on Saturday, November 29, on behalf of Britain's leading veterinary charity, PDSA, raised £119.44. This money will contribute towards the free veterinary treatment of pets owned by those on low incomes and receiving
As the year draws to a close, may we thank everyone who has so generously supported the Martlets Hospice throughout 2003. In raising funds for the work of the Martlets, they have enabled our staff and volunteers to care for terminally ill patients and
Does Councillor Craig Turton write his letters in the garden? He's certainly digging a deeper hole for himself. Before taking up his pen to discuss Hove Library again, he would do well to borrow a book on logic. He now tells us (Letters, December 18)
I was appalled and horrified to read of the "squirrel cull" at the chapel of Portslade Cemetery (The Argus, December 17). The so-called godly staff of this chapel seem to have forgotten the true meaning of their faith. Have they forgotten the words of
Mr LJ MacIntosh's letter (December 18) would be just another complaint about parking were it not for the curious claim that "the people of West Sussex do not have to put up with this from their council so why should we in East Sussex?" I have news for
Parents Clare Knight and Greg Curl had the Christmas present they had been dreaming of - being reunited with their tiny son, Harrison. The infant weighed just 2lb when he was born three months premature in November. The couple endured a 250-mile trip
In response to Ian Manders's suggestion that the West Pier should be replaced with a giant wind turbine (Letters, December 22), may I make the following points: 1. Should our plans for the restoration fail (and they will not) the money currently earmarked
People who can afford second homes should pay full council tax. If somebody owns two cars they don't get 50 per cent discount on insurance, road tax or fuel. If they don't want to pay, they shouldn't buy. -Ian Hunt, Worthing
Airlines today expressed concern at plans to deploy armed sky marshals on transatlantic flights from Gatwick. Worries over the Government's anti-terrorist initiative follow strong opposition from the pilots' union Balpa. A British Airways spokeswoman
Shoppers are expected to continue a High Street spending frenzy this week as Sussex retailers enjoy some belated festive cheer. Sluggish pre-Christmas sales left many shops with large quantities of unsold stock as customers waited for the inevitable fall
The league tables for Sussex schools' Key Stage 2 results we published on Thursday last week were incomplete because they did not include the value-added element. Andrew Fort, of the governing body of Durrington Middle School in Worthing, says: "The position
Airlines today expressed concern at plans to deploy armed sky marshals on transatlantic flights from Gatwick. Worries over the Government's anti-terrorist initiative follow strong opposition from the pilots' union Balpa. A British Airways spokeswoman
Can anybody from the police, Brighton and Hove City Council or Highways Committee please explain the legality of the newly dedicated red cycle lane? This picture is of the bottom of Elm Grove after months of chaos and massive disruption to put cycle lanes
Homeowners were on flood alert today after 50mm of rain fell in just eight hours overnight. The downpour followed a weekend of torrential rain which has left rivers on the verge of bursting their banks. The Environment Agency today issued a formal flood
I was interested to read that Lewes MP Norman Baker had taken such an interest in whether any of the directors of Brighton and Hove Albion had met with the Deputy Prime Minister or any ministers in his department since January 2002 (The Argus, December
Is it my imagination or would other people agree that Hove MP Ivor Caplin would attend the opening of my mine or anyone else's front door if there was a chance of getting his photo in the paper or on television? On the other hand, when it comes to issues
Sullivan Phillips came up with one of the plays of the season as Bears put rivals London Towers in their place on Saturday. They came back from 11 points down for a 93-89 success which was more comfortable than the final scoreline suggests. With Kendrick
I live in London, having moved here from New York in 1990. I'm contemplating a move to Brighton, where the wonderful human-scale environment has always attracted me. I'm therefore deeply disturbed by the prospect of a new plague of high-rise tower blocks
The big guns made it another clean sweep of the honours in the Boxing Day road races in Preston Park. There was no hangover for last year's winners, all four of whom were triumphant again as they dished out the medicine to their rivals in a repeat of
Albion's away day blues are threatening to destroy their challenge for an immediate return to Division One. Another narrow defeat on the road has cost them valuable ground in the race for automatic promotion. The Seagulls have now lost away in the League
The Angel of Mostar has been having trouble with halos this Christmas. Sally Becker has rescued dozens of children from war-torn Bosnia and Kosovo and helped hundreds more people through her aid work. She has survived being shot, put in prison and tortured
The trade union Amicus has launched a drive to recognise the "UK's best employers" as part of a campaign to improve fairness at work. Amicus, which represents 1.1 million workers, said it wanted to reward companies with good industrial relations, decent
Shoppers are expected to continue a High Street spending frenzy this week as Sussex retailers enjoy some belated festive cheer. Sluggish pre-Christmas sales left many shops with large quantities of unsold stock as customers waited for the inevitable fall
Residents are facing a "winter of discontent" over controversial writer Julie Burchill's plans to sell her home to developers. Ms Burchill and her neighbours have agreed to sell their homes for about £1million each to make way for 108 new flats. The four
Albion goal hero John Piercy celebrated like Alan Shearer on Boxing Day after his team-mates dubbed him Alan Sheila. Piercy mimicked the Newcastle and former England marksman following the first of two goals in the 4-0 destruction of nine-man Wycombe
A bigamist known as the Black Widow may have used the diabetes drug insulin to induce a coma in her husband before murdering him, it has emerged. Police believe it is likely that Dena Thompson, a diabetic, gave Julian Webb a cake laced with the drug to
Passengers who spit at railway staff could find themselves in court as part of a new "get tough" initiative. Rail operator South Central is preparing to issue its Sussex-based staff with DNA testing kits so abusive passengers can be tracked down through
Firefighters rallied to help a family whose Christmas was wrecked by a blaze at their home. Flames ripped through the house destroying presents and furniture. The family's pets were killed. Two crews were called to Linden Close, Eastbourne, at 10.30pm
A new device is being tested to help make police car chases a thing of the past. Sussex officer Superintendent Jim Hammond, who chairs an Association of Chief Police Officers (ACPO) technology working group, is investigating the possibility of stopping
An inquest is due to be opened this week into the death of a motorist whose Land Rover was in a collision with a coach load of Jehovah's Witnesses. Francis Oakley, 32, from Bramley, Surrey, was killed in the crash, which left more than coach 50 passengers
Kind-hearted readers helped to brighten Christmas for mugging victim Eddie Walters. The 71-year-old, who suffers from leukaemia and has been told he only has six months to live, was beaten and robbed outside a supermarket two weeks ago. His wallet, which
CST, a little-known form of alternative therapy, is beginning to become more popular but most people still have no idea what it is about. Cordula Hallensleben is a trained doctor but has always had an interest in alternative treatments such as acupuncture
After the Christmas celebrations, don't we all yearn for a new body to bring in the New Year? The easiest way to start a gentle detox process is to eat less comfort food (bread, biscuits, sweets) and more fruit between meals. Use up any leftover meat
The latest phase of a £12 million harbour development project has begun. Contractors for Mowlem Building (Eastern) are to construct 111 luxury properties at Sovereign Harbour, near Eastbourne. But residents, who have long campaigned for more facilities
In reply to Reg Jenkins (Letters, December 20) I say weep not at the sight of Saddam Hussein being inspected by a gloved medic for lice and other infestations. The US army was paying him back for his treatment of the two RAF officers, Flt Lieutenants
The Voice of The Argus (December 20) says the proposal for four-storey houses in Brunswick Street West "will provide much needed housing". But four-storey houses with roof gardens are likely to be luxury houses, rather than affordable ones. Obviously
I can only agree with Somerhill Road residents when they say the character of Hove is being changed and express concern about the increase in traffic if perfectly good houses are yet again bulldozed to put up a huge block of flats (The Argus, December
The following is an extract from the only surviving volume of the local constable's report book from April 1822 - December 1823, which was presented to the Sussex Archaeological Society in the 1970s. "Most offences were of drunkenness by both men and
