I am very upset to see the sandpit at East Brighton Park filled up with Tarmac.

I have spoken to Ecovert and Brighton and Hove City Council staff, who have given various reasons - such as health and safety - for this act of official vandalism.

None of the reasons given is strong enough to justify the loss of this facility. Sand is a wonderful play medium for children.

It is a contrast to the excitement of swings and slides, providing calm, absorbing play which stimulates creativity. The sandpit is also an arena for social interaction.

This particular sandpit in East Brighton Park was excellent because it was large and round, so groups of children could play alongside each other without intimidation or territorialism taking hold.

My children would spend five or ten minutes on the swings, make a quick trip up and down the climbing frame and then settle in the sandpit for an hour or more.

It has been taken away, with no discussion, because someone is frightened I am going to sue them if my child's clothes get stained or if my child gets scratched.

-Fiona R Weaver, parent