<image sussexcity Business guru John McWilliams, centre, with speakers and

sponsors, from left, Robin St Clair-Jones, Diana Horner, Mike Herd and Jim McNiven>

Businesses gathered in Brighton and Hove to share advice and listen to industry leaders.

Sussex in the City was a free event combining a business exhibition with a day of speakers and workshops covering issues affecting the county.

Organiser Diana Horner said: "Sussex has a diverse range of businesses and a cosmopolitan reputation.

"We wanted to get everyone together to enjoy free advice and the chance to mingle in a relaxed environment.

"We had more than 700 people registered to attend before the event started and an open door. There was plenty of opportunity for people to drop in and see what we were up to.

"The stands presented a good mix of first time and experienced exhibitors.

"It has been a successful first attempt at such a grand venture. One of our exhibitors received an order worth £38,000 from a visitor to the event."

A timetable of speakers ran from early morning to 4pm, covering topics across the business board.

Presenters included Emily Aitken, director of Wired Sussex, Rachel Henderson, director of Stride Recruitment agency, and Jim McNiven, managing director of new media company Kerb.

In his trademark flamboyant style, Mr McNiven spoke about the potential pitfalls of online marketing campaigns.

He then took a look around the exhibition.

He said: "There has been a lot going on here with plenty of different businesses represented, both on the platform and around the hall.

"It is the kind of useful networking event which brings together segments of the business community and gives them a chance to think about ideas they might not come across in their day-to-day activities."

Sussex Enterprise was one of 40 companies and organisations to host a stall at the event.

Head of business development for Sussex Enterprise Tim Maskell said: "The event was a different style from the usual business conference, with a more modern and happening feel.

"It was a forum for businesses to engage in a creative and entertaining way and offered the chance to build relationships with new clients.

"By taking part, we have shown we are forward-looking in our approach and the business organisation for Sussex."

Sussex in the City was sponsored by The Argus, Sussex Innovation Centre, Wired Sussex, Southern FM and AVT.