Stephen Albion (Opinion, March 8) echoed my recent thoughts and frustrations.

Four years ago, after years of training in London, I was lucky enough to find a job in Brighton after applying for work in various parts of the South.

I immediately took to my adopted town (now city), enjoying its vibrant community and beautiful location.

My intention was to put down roots and, of course, sooner or later buy my own property.

Alas. Since I have lived here, house prices have rocketed, putting my simple aspiration out of reach. One-bed flats for £75,000-115,000 are ridiculous and well beyond the reach of my £16,000 salary.

Even once-humble dwellings can now only be afforded by the well-paid middle classes, many of whom contribute little to this community because they don't work here and in some cases only spend weekends here.

I had to move from my rented flat because the landlord is cashing in on the present market trend and developing the property.

In an effort to maintain an acceptable standard of living, I have clubbed together with a friend and rented a two-bed flat - not exactly what I had hoped for when moving here.

I have a key role in the community, being a mental health professional.

But I realise I am going to have to move out of Brighton to stand even an outside chance of affording my own home.

I sincerely hope I am not forced to leave my job and the area altogether to live and work somewhere where my contribution to society is more readily rewarded.

Despite having been in Brighton only four years, I feel I am one of the people who make Brighton what it is.

What hope is there for the spirit of this city if those who love it and serve it are elbowed out by those who have little more than only money?

-Clifford Iffland, Kings Gardens, Hove