It seems R W Carden is himself banging drums against vegetarianism.

Surely it is a matter of informed choice, not a competition of beliefs?

The public is becoming more aware of the effects of poor factory farming methods on collective health and many are appalled at the lack of animal welfare standards that have clearly resulted in foot-and-mouth disease, CJD, salmonella, E Coli and swine fever.

Now these hideous facts are coming out in the open, many people are choosing to opt for a healthier, animal- friendly vegetarian or vegan diet.

Brighton is leading the way by offering a good selection of restaurants, food stores and organisations such as Viva!, which help people make this choice for themselves.

-J Hosler, address supplied