I have just returned to Brighton after several years and, having been born and raised in the city, must say I was shocked to see the state of the grass verges and other grassed areas around the city.

What has happened? I have been told the Greens on Brighton and Hove City Council have two excuses: a lack of funds for cutting the grass and believing that leaving verges to grow wild flowers naturally is acceptable.

I think this is contrary to the wishes of most people in the city. The place looks disgraceful, unkempt, unloved and uncared for.

Visitors must think we are a lazy, slovenly lot who can’t be bothered to keep our city tidy or take any pride in its appearence.

The grass verges along the A27 going out towards Lewes are awful; there are not even many flowers in among the grass.

Then there are the previously sponsored flower beds along the front of Preston Park, facing the main road. These used to be immaculate – now they are an eyesore.

I have been living in the North East, a supposedly “grim” place, with deprivation and unemployment everywhere. But, let me tell you, they take pride in their towns and villages. There are flowers everywhere, in every town, including on top of the bus shelters.

How is it they manage to take pride in their towns, holding public services together, yet Brighton and Hove cannot?

The Greens are a sorry excuse. They will be out at the next opportunity and they know it.

M Blackman, Braeside Avenue, Brighton