Firms in Sussex are being urged to consider selling to the international aid market.

A seminar later this month aims to de-mystify the area of aid-funded business.

The event will cover all the practical steps of winning business from organisations such as the European Commission, the World Bank, United Nations agencies and the Red Cross.

Carolyn Bentley, export adviser for Sussex Enterprise, said: "There are huge opportunities for companies of all sizes to sell their product to aid organisations.

"Governments around the world invest billion of pounds every year in development projects and they need the help of businesses to deliver services efficiently.

"There is no reason why small to medium-sized Sussex companies cannot take part in bidding for the business this generates.

"This is the first time we have organised such an event and we are hoping to attract companies that may not have considered this particular market before."

The seminar, at the Burgess Hill offices of Sussex Enterprise on October 30, will cover background information, understanding the processes involved and how to find opportunities and contact the key decision-makers.

There will also be a question and answer session followed by one-to- one discussions for individual companies.

Mrs Bentley said: "Opportunities exist for firms of all sizes and covering most sectors, including medical equipment, education and training, telecommunications and information technology, environmental services and building."

Details of the free seminar are available from Sussex Enterprise on 01444 259252.

A law firm is taking the one-stop shop approach by opening up in a Sussex shopping centre.

Sea Law has taken over the former creche in Priory Meadow, Hastings, turning the traditional image of dusty Victorian law offices on its head.

Sea Law is a joint venture between Eastbourne firm, Atfield Mullaney and Bushnell Shortman, which has offices in Rye and Folkestone, Kent.

The four partners, Graham Atfield, John Mullaney, Christopher Bushnell and David Shortman, have more than 60 years experience in law practice between them.

Mr Shortman said: "We decided we wanted to not only operate in the heart of the local community but play an active role. So what better place than in a shopping centre? The venue is ideal for making our profession more customer- friendly. We hope people will be encouraged to pop in while they are out shopping and make use of our services, which include an initial no-obligation consultation.

"The joint venture means we can consolidate our skills and resources. Both firms have clients in the area and, with Graham Atfield and myself living there, an office in Hastings is a natural development for the practice."

The firm hopes to encourage community use of its shop window for display purposes, such as children's poster competitions and school project work.