I am surprised and not a little disappointed at the tone of reporting in The Argus (April 4) concerning the reaction to The Queen Mother's death.

Firstly, in contrast to the sudden and dramatic death of Diana, Princess of Wales, The Queen Mother was by any measure, an elderly lady and rehearsals have been taking place for her death in television studios for the past 20 years.

There is not the shock and, some would say, the anger that was present at the time of the late princess' death.

Secondly, as the Mayor of Brighton and Hove rightly indicated, the books of condolence had not been widely advertised.

It is worth remembering that the majority of residents in this city have a living to earn and few bosses in the current economic climate can afford for their employees to zip off to the town hall, however much they regret the passing of such a great public figure.

Thirdly, I am sure many will wish to visit Westminster Hall to pay their respects and sign the books made available at the royal palaces.

Indeed, this is what my partner and I will be doing today along with other friends from Brighton.

-David Gold, davidsgold@tory.org