Something needs to be done to stop the pernicious practice of using herbicides on the edges of grass verges throughout Brighton and Hove, especially on the estates.

This cheap and very nasty alternative to proper mechanical trimming is causing irreparable damage. Many verges already have an ugly border of mud around them, up to 30cm wide. In the summer, this will become dust.

The practice is leading to continuous erosion of topsoil, which will, in turn, help to block drains and soakaways. There is also the environmental impact of chemical run-off to be considered.

For years, we have suffered this shabby method of mowing public grass areas throughout the spring and summer which leaves the place in a most unattractive mess.

Perhaps the idea is that after a few more winters the verges will be so degraded we will be happy to have them covered with asphalt.

Such wanton disregard for the quality of our surroundings spreads like a cancer.

If Brighton and Hove City Council appears not to care, how can we expect motorists, for example, to worry about parking on the grass, or children to be encouraged to dispose of their litter thoughtfully, or residents to keep their properties neat and attractive?

This problem is yet another example of what happens when services are provided (or, rather, not provided) on the cheap with profit the only motive and no consideration given to the quality of life of the people who live here.

-Vince Wild, Bodiam Close, Brighton