Writer Julie Burchill has once again demonstrated her unique talent for choosing the wrong side of an argument.

She has given cash to the campaign opposing a bid for Brighton and Hove to become the European Capital of Culture.

In doing so, Ms Burchill has joined the sad band of no hopers who oppose every move by Brighton and Hove to move forward.

They didn't want the two towns to become a city. They didn't want a directly-elected mayor. They don't like any of the proposed development schemes ranging from renovating the King Alfred in Hove to the Brighton station urban village.

This sour campaign is seeking to portray the bid as an opportunity by a few luvvies to enjoy elitist entertainment. Nothing could be further from the truth.

The range of events chosen to highlight the bid this year is designed to appeal to all tastes.

Maybe we mean almost all, for nothing much will please the antis except to have Julie Burchill on their side with her capacity for venom.