I was interested to read that the newly elected Brighton and Hove City Council is, within a few days, handing out gongs to retired councillors (The Argus, May 8).

It never ceases to amaze me how quickly people forget they are elected to serve.

It is as if their fellow councillors have attached a new carriage to the gravy train called the "Aldermans' carriage".

Whatever next? I suppose this is the beginning of the ticket to ride. I am sure many others will follow - the retired, the failed and those who were so insignificant they are to be rewarded with a new title.

Many of us have had to endure a filthy city led by councillors who seemed to have lost touch with the voters and, heady with power, pursued their own agenda.

Now they are to heap accolades upon themselves and those who languish in retirement.

Well, to use a well-worn phrase, "Alderman appointments? Not in my name."

Ah, but I am just one of the voters, forgotten for another four years.

-S E Fleming, Hove