There has been much discussion in the media lately on the matter of how, next year, to mark the centenary of the beginning of the First World War.

It strikes me that Brighton has its own perfect answer, with both the Indian Gateway to the Royal Pavilon and the Chattri up near Patcham – both, of course, relating to the town’s use as a huge hospital for Indian casualties.

I suggest, through your paper, that the mayor should correspond with the Indian ambassador in London with an idea for a service of rededication of this gateway with a detachment of full-dress Indian soldiers complemented by a similar number of ours.

This would not in any way be a glorification of war or victory, but something to mark the commencement of the industrial slaughterhouse which the war became.

It is a perfect spot because, although central, it would involve minimal disruption to businesses, even if the Pavilion area was closed for a couple of hours.

A mid-morning time might be appropriate, perhaps on Sunday, July 27. It might be appropriate for the dignitaries to then proceed to the Chattri north of Patcham and pay respects there too.

Richard Foster, Beech View, Angmering