Letters in the past few months have given us a clear insight into public concerns as the May 1 local election has drawn ever nearer.

Labour has been in control for almost two decades and has dismally failed in its financial management, leaving a debt-ridden city with a massive council tax increase.

The Tories, when they were in charge earlier, made cuts in essential services, leaving Brighton and Hove with many social and environmental issues that have still to be solved.

Liberal Democrats have cogent environmental, housing and transport policies.

We also have a definite policy on the development of the King Alfred centre, Black Rock, Falmer and other controversial and sensitive sites.

We have clear leadership and vision. People have told us many times on their doorsteps that, first, the Tories and, then, Labour have messed things up and it is time to give Lib Dems a go at running affairs.

Time is short. Test us through the ballot paper, please, and see what we can do.

-Ron Bakere, Lib Dem candidate, Goldsmid ward, Hove