Still with drink, it seems Hove Town Hall is losing business as the cost of catering there is higher than at other venues.

People who would otherwise hold their functions at the Church Road hall are going elsewhere because of rising charges.

If the venue is not used it will slowly wither away and eventually close, something critics of Hove joining Brighton as an all-singing all-dancing unitary council often said would happen.

It would be a shame if that happened. Hove needs a town hall and everything should be done to keep it viable and busy.

Brighton and Hove City Council says it has a duty to cover the running costs.

True, but it also has a duty to make sure Hove Town Hall stays open.