Police today hit back at critics who complained about the amount of money spent on the launch of an anti-crime initiative.

BBC Crimewatch presenter Nick Ross was paid £5,000 to act as presenter. The Argus understands the event cost £52-a-head and one critic put the total bill for the evening at more than £30,000.

One guest complained of expensive-looking folders offered to the 500 guests. They each contained a Parker pen and coasters and mouse mats advertising the crime campaign.

They said the money would have been better spent supporting crime victims.

But Superintendent Andy Bliss, Brighton police commander, today defended the cost. In a letter to The Argus he said: "I am extremely disappointed that some people have chosen to criticise me for the decision to invite Nick Ross to help launch the Brighton and Hove Anti-Victimisation Initiative.

"As a nationally-respected broadcaster on crime issues, Nick was paid a fair and reasonable sum to give this major launch a real impetus.

"I and my colleagues both inside the police and from other agencies deal daily with domestic violence, homophobic and racist crime. I regard drawing attention to these abhorrent offences and the fact that there is now a new team to deal with these crimes in our city as an entirely legitimate and proper use of public money.

"The fact that victims of such crimes can now call upon the police and other support via our direct dial contact number is the real story."

Mr Ross, who cut £3,000 from his normal £8,000 fee to show support for the cause, told The Argus the critics might be right.

He often donates his time for free but, he said, the organisers invited him and offered to pay.

Councillor Paul Elgood, Lib Dem leader on the city council, called the fee "unbelievable".

David Gold, prospective Tory parliamentary candidate for Brighton Pavilion, said: "I attended the launch and thought it was extremely impressive.

"However, I understand that thousands of pounds were spent on the entire launch and that the £5,000 is but a small part.

"I will be seeking answers to the issue of who allowed this massive expenditure."

The unit is a working partnership of nine organisations including the police and probation service, Brighton and Hove City Council, the Racial Harassment Forum, Women's Refuge Project and the Safety Forum for Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual and Transgendered Community.

It aims to tackle domestic violence and racial and homophobic crimes.

The team can be contacted on 01273 665502 or 01273 665800.