I was interested to read K Simmons' complaint about Shoreham Airport's burden on the taxpayers of East and West Sussex (Letters, February 24).

I understand the airport is owned jointly by the city of Brighton and Hove (which "inherited" ownership from the former separate boroughs) and the borough of Worthing.

As Brighton and Hove is a separate county from East Sussex (this still seems to surprise some people), no cost would fall on East Sussex taxpayers. A share of the costs (one third, I believe) falls on the taxpayers of Worthing and not on those in the Adur district in which Mr Simmons lives.

Shoreham is the oldest airfield in England and was established in what was then open country.

Many people have subsequently chosen to live near the airport in full knowledge of its existence.

If Mr Simmons finds it such a pain, why did he move there?

Living near the airport could be seen as a benefit, particularly as there are now regular flights to northern France and the Channel Islands which obviate the need to travel to and suffer the hassle of a major airport such as Gatwick.

As a Brightonian, I am proud to be a part owner of this facility. Long may it survive.

-Peter Bailey, Brighton