I was disappointed to read your report on the successes of the Clarendon local action team in tackling anti-social behaviour in Hove (The Argus, July 5).

The area has never been "a haunt of yobs, junkies and drunks", as described by Nigel Freedman. Neither can it be labelled "a haven for drug dealers". Nor has it ever been an "Estate of Fear", as referred to in the headline.

The action team is the single most rewarding piece of work I have been associated with in ten years as a councillor and it is sad The Argus portrayed the area in this way to make our positive work newsworthy.

Many residents living on the Clarendon and Ellen Street Estate will have found the comments both offensive and hurtful.

-Councillor Simon Battle, Goldsmid Ward Councillor, Hove