People have been taking pot shots at hotels in Brighton since the resort's earliest days.

The latest is Peter Harden, whose hotel guide for 2004 is rude about most of the traditional places to stay in the city.

It says The Grand is trading on its reputation, the Hilton Metropole has tatty rooms, the Thistle is hideous and the Old Ship is dull.

Most Brighton people never get the chance to stay in the hotels which are part of their city. But many use hotels for functions, meals and even high teas. There are few dissatisfied customers.

These are an integral part of a resort which is competing against other top-notch venues such as Bournemouth and Blackpool. As an international city, it also has to fight for conference trade which might otherwise go to Cannes or San Francisco.

If the hotels are no good, Brighton's star will fade. Discerning guests and business organisers, used to the highest standards, will go elsewhere. Hotels vary in standard. Many are as good as their latest manager or chef. Any hotel can have a bad day.

But Brighton's major hotels are generally good, whatever this guide may say. Their bosses know they have to maintain exacting standards in an increasingly competitive business.