We've had a flood of letters from people who are understandably frustrated that what would have been a free day out, especially in a world where the price of everything is steadily rising, could cost at least £20 for a family of four.

Personally, I've no problem with a smaller charge for people wanting to visit the static display on the Western Lawns, but charging so much for entry to what is a public beach and right of way seems a bit extreme.

Judging by the mail we've received (both postal and electronic), and the comments we've had on our website, the plan seems to be riddled with problems.

A number of public toilets are included in the paid-for zone – so what happens if you're not there for the planes and you need to go? A fiver to spend a penny?

Readers who rent beach huts have written in questioning why they should fork out for themselves – and family and friends – to use a facility for which they have already paid.

And there are also concerns for trade – the Wish Tower Restaurant is in the paid-for zone and people have pointed out that the stallholders who line the seafront might make less this year and be disinclined to come back in 2009.

It just goes to show that the plan to charge was rushed through without the council giving the ramifications much thought. Teething problems in any new idea are bound to happen, but more could have been done to prevent them in this case.

Local people are bound to flock to the 'free' parts of the beach to watch the displays (I know I probably would), with the greater percentage of people paying being tourists who have come down for a day.

A few years ago, my neighbours and I needed some works done on the roof of our flats in the town centre. We had scaffolding up for months before the roofers came – and they finished the job while Airbourne was on.

This just goes to show there are several creative ways to avoid paying – and most of those who know this area and want to see the air show will do just that.