Following a period of loutish behaviour, under-age drinking and smoking and general damage in the Hangleton area, local workers, the police and residents had a meeting to try to find a workable solution.

Because of reduced resources and volunteers and a general lack of support, we could not find a way to resolve the matter but were determined to keep trying. We all went home rather sad.

During the Knoll and Hangleton Festival centred on The Grenadier pub on Saturday last, the Hangleton School Brass Band played as part of the entertainment.

Our spirits were instantly raised when we saw all those young musicians playing to a very high standard.

They were all in white shirts with black trousers and one young man - who played his solos on what I think was a flugelhorn - really raised my spirits.

Seeing them all playing so well together I thought all is not lost. These young people had found an interest so why shouldn't the rowdy ones who had been the subject of our debate just a few evenings previously?

I am sure Trevor Povey and Catherine Mitchell would not mind me giving them a mention as leaders in the Knoll and Hangleton Project.

Volunteers who can give of their time or finance should contact them on 01273 706469.

Best wishes to all involved in this worthwhile project.

-David Smart, member of the Older Persons City Council, Hove