Brighton and Hove could have their own directly elected mayor within a year or two with real power instead of just a figurehead.

The talking has gone on for months, leading into years. The time for decisions is fast approaching.

Now that the Local Government Act is law, the council is losing no time in asking people whether they think having their own mayor is a good idea.

The answer is almost certain to be yes which will prompt a referendum. That too should confirm popular support for the idea and the election will follow.

It will all cost money. Democracy does not come cheaply. But the expense can be lessened if any referendum or election can be dovetailed with existing elections which is more than possible.

There's no shortage of likely good candidates for mayor in Brighton and Hove or in other towns likely to go down the same road.

They will be symbols of the towns and be able to speak for them. They will have real power to make decisions in our interests.

If we don't like them, we can tell them so directly and boot them out through the ballot box. Directly elected mayors combine democracy with action.

The largest employer in town needs to be flexible, fast moving and effective. The new mayors will be figures or real power and influence.

It can't happen soon enough for the sake of Brighton and Hove. But a resounding Yes vote is needed first to set the election process on its way.