BUSINESS networking group Hove Business Association teamed up with Hove Museum and Art Gallery and The Starr Trust to stage one of its biggest events.

The event on Wednesday evening was called Hooray for Hove and Portslade and was described as a “ networking event with a difference.”

It was held in the building and grounds of Hove Museum and Art Gallery, part of the Royal Pavilion estate.

The evening was opened by the new Mayor of Brighton and Hove, cllr Mo Marsh, who arrived in classic style in a Streamline taxi vintage 1965 Riley.

The Mayor acknowledged the long-standing achievements of HBA and the positive impact it makes in the city.

There was glorious sunshine, English strawberries and fresh cream courtesy of the Blatchington Rd Co-op and pimms and fizz donated by Matthew Clark.

There was also singing from local duo Melissa and Reece who created the perfect setting for some serious, albeit informal, business networking.

Brighton Yoga Foundation helped guests relax and unwind after a hard day at work and the event raised several hundred pounds for Hove-based kids’ charity the Starr Trust.

HBA chair Victoria Mason said: “We aim to encourage collaboration amongst businesses in Hove and Portslade – what better way to do that than a garden party in the beautiful Hove Museum grounds.”

HBA was established in 1929 and is the business network for Hove and Portslade. Its purpose is to encourage trade in the area.

It organises training, networking and social events throughout the year.

The Starr Trust supports young people aged 10–18 to fulfil their potential through sports, arts and education, by giving a helping hand to achieve their goals at a time when they really need it.

It is based in Goldstone Street, Hove, and was chosen as one of four charities at the Hilton Brighton Metropole’s annual Midsummer Ball on June 24.

The theme was A Night at the Musicals and almost 450 guests were there.