I was very heartened to see another two Conservatives defecting to the Liberal Democrats this week.

Over the course of the past year or so, it seems a number of Tories have chosen Labour as their new home.

Not, I add, because their beliefs have altered but because they perceive a better chance staying in power.

Over the past year, the Lib Dems in Brighton and Hove have spoken with a voice of reason amid all the mud slinging.

Recognising the burden of Brighton and Hove City Council to provide good public services to the city, they understand the needs of the communities within and, accordingly, want to bring democracy to the front door and not consign it to a closed room.

So it's clear that two Conservatives have a desire to serve the people and not just their own political ambition

If a few more councillors could come to their senses and do the same, we might see rhyme and reason returning to sea air.

-Ian Fennell, Cleveland Road, Hove