What a shame the charity spectacular event at Southwick was forced to close two hours before its scheduled 11pm finish, on the strength of a telephone call from a licensing officer threatening a £10,000 fine and revocation of a licence.

People were still arriving to see the top of the bill and finale, so the event lost out.

I was there all day. There was never a police presence and none was required as it was a peaceful and happy day out for all the family, in aid of a very good cause.

Perhaps those who authorised this shut-down would like to arrange a collection to make up for the money lost. Donations and cheques should be made payable to Rhett's Syndrome Association UK.

-Laurie Hilditch ACII JP, Friends of Hillside School, Fairfield Gardens, Portslade, Hove, East Sussex