In answer to Steve Oxford's question as to who do we think we are to make our points (Letters, May 12) we think we are citizens of a democracy that permits free speech.

I accept that when city centre residents bought their properties noise levels at night were not as high as they are now and I'd be the first to argue for a clampdown on anti-social behaviour.

However, as I remember it, the centre of Brighton was hardly quiet even ten years ago. I repeat, you can't expect to live in a city centre and not deal with noise.

Personally, I would be delighted if the Spiegeltent was situated on my road. Since I'm there every night until it closes, it would shorten my journey. However, there's nowhere to put it and Bonchurch Road is too residential. Can Mr Oxford suggest a less residential part of the city than Pavilion Gardens?

I'm delighted the council and the Spiegeltent reached a compromise. The buzz is almost back to the way it was before the noise abatement order was served.

Since Mr Oxford's property has increased in value fourfold in ten years, he must be delighted he can now afford to move to one of the quieter parts of Hove.

-Rachel Papworth, Brighton