For more than three years, Smash EDO has sought to increase public awareness of the weapons manufacturers (EDO-MBM) at work in Brighton, despite its status as a UN Peace Messenger City.

While we can all grimace at the atrocities resulting from carpet bombing in Baghdad, Lebanon and Afghanistan, it is important not to ignore those who profit directly from these one-sided wars.

But what I would really like to express is my sincere gratitude to Brighton police for their support at our weekly peaceful (although somewhat noisy) demonstration opposite the factory each Wednesday (4-6pm, all welcome).

For the last two weeks we have been graced by no less than an inspector leading the police presence.

It is comforting to know that crime levels in Brighton must be so low that an inspector has time on his hands to join us for a natter.

Perhaps next week he will bring the Chief Constable down. If so, perhaps he could let us know in advance so that we could lay on some refreshments.

  • James Stephenson, Marine Parade, Brighton