I thought it was a great idea - there is no doubt it was just what Brighton needed.

We wanted to show that culture is for all the people, not just in highfalutin theatres.

When I watched it on TV I thought it was wonderful and great to see Brighton. It was obviously a success but of course some people will complain about it.

I know a man died and a woman was seriously injured but wherever you have 250,000 people there will be problems.

But there were 250,000 people and only six arrests and that's less than a normal Saturday night.

If we knew there was going to be 250,000 and if it happened again next year, presumably the police, transport and health people would be able to plan for it.

Business has prospered beyond doubt and whatever the outcome is, because it's given Brighton publicity, it's good publicity.

by Roger Marlowe, chairman of the Brighton and Hove Hoteliers Association