BRIGHTON and Hove’s music industry is now worth £45 million a year to the city, a new report has revealed.

UK Music’s Wish You Were Here report has revealed the total direct and indirect spend generated in the city last year from the music industry was £45 million.

The report also reveals 398,000 people visited live music events last year while 154,000 “music tourists” were attracted to the city.

It estimates that the music industry supports 481 full-time jobs in the city.

Brighton Kemptown MP Simon Kirby hailed the report and said it was important to preserve the city’s thriving music industry.

Mr Kirby said: “Brighton is a unique music city. Not only is it a home for many music fans, but its gigs and festivals also draw many people to visit.

"We must maintain this success over the coming years.”

Jo Dipple, UK Music Chief Executive said: “The appetite for live music has continued to grow.

"Last year overseas music tourism increased by 16 per cent, whilst British music events were attended by a staggering 27.7 million people in 2015.

"What this report shows, unequivocally, is the economic value of live music to communities, cities and regions.”