Some ten months ago, The Argus published a letter outlining my grave concerns when it was announced by the Government that more casino licences were to be granted.

The figure that was then quoted would have seen the return of the sleazy, grimy joints which were once abundant in the Sixties.

However, good advice has since prompted a U-turn from the Home Office and only 17 "super casino" licences will now be granted.

Only time will tell if this figure will be financially viable.

The one pleasing aspect of this conundrum is the application by the Brighton Metropole for a new casino, as this establishment was the first in the UK to be granted a full casino licence in 1962.

Then it opened with all the pomp and ceremony befitting Monte Carlo and retained a high quality of service until the transfer of its licence to The International Casino in Preston Street.

This was the cause of the demise of the West Pier, as the owners of the Metropole, AVP, wanted to transform the ballroom on the pier into a gaming house.

This application was turned down by the council and so the demise of the pier started.

I began my career in gaming at the Metropole in the Sixties and was taught to the highest standards. I'm afraid those standards have slipped drastically as the industry has declined.

Having managed casinos in many countries around the world, I believe I have the knowledge to say that should another, bigger licence be granted, at least two of the four casinos in the city will have to close. There just isn't enough business 52 weeks a year for all to stay viable.

-David Spear, Hove