The Argus reported the great disapointment felt by many, including myself, at the possible closure of the London Road Co-op department store (October 15).

Brighton has a strong connection with the Co-op movement. The Rochdale Pioneers owed much of their inspiration to the writings of Dr William King who was a philanthropic local physician.

In the 1820s, he helped set up the Brighton Provident and District Society (the first visiting society in England), he opened the Brighton Mechanics Institute and helped set up the Brighton Co-op Benevolent Fund and the Brighton Co-op Trading Association.

For many generations, the Co-op has been a part of everyday life here but it isn't disappearing altogether.

Co-op supermarkets and banks are still there to use and smaller ventures, such as Magpie, are valued by local people.

Let's hope the department store is reprieved (something I have no control over).

The Argus wrongly described me as chairman of the Sussex Co-operative Society, whereas I am chair of the Sussex Co-op Party, which backs Labour Co-operative MPs and councillors.

-Councillor Simon Burgess, Labour & Co-op councillor, Chair of Sussex Co-op Party