The headlines tell of "the sickening behaviour that is ruining a resort" and "a place to avoid if you are over 30, teetotal or not promiscuous".

Although referring to Faliraki, they could well have been describing Brighton.

The city centre and seafront have become a no-go area for anyone who does not fit into the club, youth or drug culture.

Try taking a pleasant stroll along the seafront on a balmy evening. Try walking through the town to enjoy a meal in a quiet restaurant.

Try walking on a pavement rather than being forced into the road to avoid rowdy groups gathered outside clubs and bars all along the main thoroughfares.

Try to avoid making eye contact with the beggars, drinkers and touters who line the streets, encircle shop doorways and target those using cash machines, making you feel besieged.

Am I a frail pensioner, alone and vulnerable?

No, I am an active, working, 40-something wife and mother who enjoys a drink, a party and a good life.

Yet the quality of my life is being negated due to the increased anti-social behaviour which has become the norm in Brighton today.

-E Purkis, Brighton