I was astonished to read the article headlined "Lingerie models ordered to cover up by police" (The Argus, August 31).

It is unfortunate timing that Worthing Carnival followed so closely on the heels of the Pride Parade and therefore comparisons are bound to be drawn.

I was unaware it was within the remit of the police to decide what was acceptable attire (excluding gross indecency).

Many years ago in, the summer of 1963, I was on a carnival float with a group of other girls wearing shocking pink basques, black fishnet tights and skimpy hotpants and most of the girls showing plenty of cleavage.

This was in the staid seaside town of Douglas on the Isle of Man.

It amazes me, some 42 years later and in our present permissive climate, that this could possibly happen.

I can only assume the police sergeant who gave the order must have led a sheltered life.

If he wanders around any resort on a hot summer's day, he will see dozens of girls in skimpy tops, and skirts.

His reasoning that there were "lots of children present" really does not hold water. Far from progressing, we seem to have regressed - and dramatically.

Maybe the sergeant needs to get out more, or maybe he had yet to be born when I was on that float?

Either way, I have to agree with Councillor Peter Willows (Letters, August 26): "It certainly makes you think."

-Caroline d'Enno, Saltdean