My grandson was to be confirmed at Brighton College last Sunday morning, along with many other pupils.

At very short notice, the service, which had been planned months ago, had to be cancelled because the police advised the college that the March for England and a counter demonstration could cause major problems for those leading and attending the service.

Our long-planned family party, attended by members travelling long distances, was in jeopardy but in the end went ahead: a confirmation party without a confirmation. How ludicrous. My grandson was very disappointed that the service had to be cancelled.

While I am in favour of people being able to voice their strongly-held views, I think it highly questionable that the right to march and hold counter demonstrations should deprive others of their rights to hold peaceful, joyful events for families and friends, not to mention the rights of the general public to lead peaceful lives.

The disruption caused the college, the bishop and all families involved major difficulties. It is clear whose rights prevailed, at much cost to others.

Margaret Weir, Surrenden Park, Brighton