As a one-time member of the old Liberal Party who objects to empire-building and naked ambition, I jumped for joy on hearing the result of the referendum for a directly-elected mayor.

I assumed The Argus, which had used the word "democracy" so often in espousing its lost cause, would accept democracy had been served and encourage us to put the past behind us and to try to make the new system work in a positive way.

I am astounded at the intemperance of Voice Of The Argus (October 20), describing Yes voters as a "rabble" and "sorry coalition" who "don't know how to run a chip shop".

I don't know how to run a chip shop but I am certain the overwhelming majority of voters belonged to no organised camp or lobby.

The Argus sells itself short by this arrogance and by attempting to tar us all with the same brush.

Perhaps when disappointment has subsided we may look forward to a more charitable and responsible lead.

-Denis Christian, Chichester Place, Brighton