Having been criminalised as a result of trading as a wildlife artist at the West Pier, I thought I'd join the other artists who trade in East Street.

So armed with a pedlar's and artist's licence, I put my badge and 12 of my prints out. The tourists loved it. Brighton and Hove Council did not. Along came two officials with a police escort.

I was told selling my work was a criminal act. I could sell one original but no previously completed work. I could, however, have permission to lay the same pictures out on the ground with a hat so people could throw me pennies.

Does the council wish to rid Brighton of artists?

sketching.

Somehow, I've drawn myself into a life of crime. This council is a joke.

-Kevin Hayler, Chesswood Road, Worthing