The threat of terrorism from the IRA has declined sharply since that dreadful day 16 years ago.

That day Grand Hotel was wrecked by a bomb during the Tory party conference and five people died.

But that does not mean we should relax our vigilance as the party of government, this time Labour, once again descends upon Brighton next month.

There is still a potential threat, not just from Irish terrorists but also from other groups ranging from animals rights extremists to anarchists.

A highly-public event such as a conference by the ruling party attended by the Prime Minister and every Cabinet Minister is certain to be a target for protest if not for terrorism.

Police and council officials have arranged a more sophisticated security operation this autumn than the measures which brought Brighton to a halt during the 1988 and 1992 Tory conferences.

It should cause less disruption to Brighton than in the past while offering as much protection as possible to Tony Blair and other leading politicians.

It's vital for a democracy to continue to function as normally as possible, and that includes party conferences, in spite of these threats to security.

The conference will also bring millions of pounds into Brighton directly and a great deal more through worldwide publicity.

Living costs Anyone who has tried to buy a house in Sussex over the last year knows of the huge hike in property prices.

There are signs that the market is now starting to cool, and not before time. Continued rises would put local economies out of kilter.

High house prices don't often make a huge amount of difference to those who already have their own homes but they can put property out of reach for first-time buyers, especially those on low incomes.

High prices reinforce the urgent need for the Government and councils to create more affordable housing.

Calmer llamas One of the most startling sights this summer in Sussex has been that of people taking Peruvian llamas for walks over the Downs on leads.

A llama-trekking business based at Hurstpierpoint is doing a brisk business with strollers queuing up to guide these animals over the hills.

Owner Steve Young says the beasts are docile and never spit at customers. You could even take your granny along and they'd do nothing to alarm her.