People in Falmer village are having to put their hands in their pockets to pay for their fight against a new football stadium on their doorstep.

Whether they are for or against the community stadium proposed by Brighton and Hove Albion, they are having to pay hundreds of pounds extra in council tax to fund representation at the public inquiry because the parish council decided to treble the tax bill.

Of course councillors have the right to impose this large levy and many villagers - almost of all of whom are against the stadium - will probably agree with it.

The few residents who back the Albion will be somewhat sore and poor. Still, when and if they win the stadium debate, the boot will be on the other foot.