Watching a report on TV about the bridge in Mostar that was rebuilt in less than ten years from its destruction showed what can be done if the will is there.

It was first built 400-500 years ago and was destroyed in the war in Bosnia in 1992.

It was rebuilt using the same limestone and techniques as when it was first constructed all those years ago.

It was a magnificent feat and seeing the people massing over the bridge showed exactly what they thought about it, what pride and passion the local government must have in their history.

It's a far cry from the local government we have in this area.

The West Pier was the first thing that came to mind when I saw this report.

How on Earth have local people allowed something like this to happen to our heritage?

I think the demise of the pier is a symptom of society in general and those who are elected to represent us in particular. The past ten years of local government have been very bad in the Brighton area. The governors have given us a rough deal.

Come on, councillors, buck up your ideas and take us forward, not back.

-John Plowman, Woodingdean, Brighton