I congratulate Brighton and Hove City Council for its stand against noise, the forgotten pollutant.

The prosecution of the perpetrator of loud music and seizure of stereo equipment (The Argus, January 23) is an example of the ever-increasing problem of noise pollution.

Environmental health officers all too often do not give this pollution and its invasion of our lives the priority it deserves.

Noise can make you ill, lead to suicide and drive some people to murder.

The Noise Abatement Society's helpline (01273 878782) receives more than 300 calls a week about noisy neighbours.

The society accepts everyone has a right to their own lives and privacy but we must all think of our neighbours.

Inadequately soundproofed buildings seem to be one major source of complaint.

Houses converted into flats with little or no soundproofing can make neighbours' lives a misery.

The recipient of noise can suffer stress which, in turn, may lead to illness.

Having to leave your home to get a night's sleep is unacceptable and for the offender in this case to apologise after being prosecuted seems very hypocritical.

Why did this person ignore the requests and abatement notices that were served on him and still continue to make his neighbour's life a misery?

What sound insulation was fitted and did it comply with building regulations? Did he have expert advice?

All too often, one uncaring person can make someone else's life a living hell.

Congratulations, Brighton and Hove City Council, but why did it take so long before action was taken?

-Peter Wakeham, Director, Noise Abatement Society, Grand Parade, Brighton