After watching the TV drama about Mary Whitehouse last week, I felt as if I had gone back to the early 1970s when I heard Councillor Mary Mears’ arguments against the Naked Bike Ride. She may not intend to be prudish and retrograde but that is certainly the impression she is giving.

Her argument about offending families visiting the town is laughable.

I have two children aged eight and five. I would certainly not want them to witness sexual behaviour but, like most children, they find nudity great fun. Especially when it’s explained to them that the nude adults are doing it for the environment. They have both just learned to cycle and I hope for a future where they can cycle safely on Brighton’s roads.

Brighton has a wonderful reputation for being green, cheeky but, above all, tolerant. That is why people come here. The real crime here is pollution and a lack of protection for our cyclists.

Am I right in remembering that this council has recently reneged on its promise for a major cycle lane on the Lewes Road?

It is Coun Mears’ actions which give this town a reputation for humourless intolerance, not the brave, friendly and funny protest of some nudey cyclists.

Coun Mears, I would suggest you get an ice cream on the beach, watch the cyclists with a sense of humour and then use your energy to protect our cyclists and environment rather than gag free speech.

Paul Bazely, Lowther Road, Brighton