Who on earth do you think you are ("Youth culture", Letters, January 17)? The youth you speak of plough huge amounts of money each year into Brighton and Hove and allow the town its development.

I have lived in Brighton and Hove for nine years and have seen many changes - some good, some bad - but, overall, the city has modernised itself culturally and physically. I like Brighton and Hove so much because of its progressive attitude. Gone are the days, thank God, of smoky pubs filled with bilious old men and women complaining of days gone by.

As to the youth being conservative, I cannot even begin to understand what you are talking about. The youth of Brighton and Hove are progressive, intelligent, colourful individuals.

Maybe the reason for Brighton and Hove City Council's relentless drive to capture the youth market is because this very market that is diversifying Brighton and Hove is also having an effect on other towns and cities in Britain.

Brighton has always been a popular place for young people. It has also, certainly since Regency times, been home to the more left-field characters in society, many of whom have fallen into the bracket you disdain as youth. What exactly bothers you so much? Young people are entitled to a say and an opinion and the right to have politicians improving their lives as much as you. If you don't feel like you fit in because you are over 35, that is your problem, not theirs. Don't belittle them because of your hang-ups.

What is it you begrudge? Is it their youth? I expect a response.

-Charlie Yates (a yoof of 32), Nevill Road, Hove