I view with a large degree of cynicism the latest initiative by the police and Brighton and Hove City Council to combat graffiti.

I recall The Argus reporting a similar campaign by both bodies last year, which has evidently failed because the incidence of graffiti in the city is probably as bad as I have seen anywhere and is without question on the increase.

I cannot believe it is beyond the capability of the police to apprehend these offenders as they repeatedly "tag" the same areas and premises.

As for the council, its complete apathy to the problem is probably best exemplified by the fact that much of the property it is responsible for is daubed with graffiti and it is often a long time before it is removed.

This is a city we should all be proud of. I say to both police and the local authority: Let's see some evidence of your intention to stamp out this mindless vandalism once and for all.

-D Westcott, Langton Lane, Hurstpierpoint