BRIGHTON's much-loved DJ Fatboy Slim launched the first LagoonFest to raise money and give Hove Lagoon a facelift.

Hundreds turned up to the festival to support the cause and to enjoy a nice day out.

The event was put together by Friends of the Hove Lagoon, to raise funds for new plants. 

Fatboy Slim, real name Norman Cook, told The Argus it has been a long-held wish of his to improve Hove Lagoon.

He said: "The lagoon is very important to me. Both of my kids love the lagoon and I live at the edge of the lagoon, plus I own a cafe here.

"All the time we have a sense of community at Hove Lagoon. The cafe has become a nice get together area for everyone.

"Over time, the lagoon has grown into a community area and we are here today to celebrate this.

"We are uniting businesses, residents, community groups and the council to make this a better place. It has so much potential.

"Brighton is important to me because it's my home. I am very proud of the city.

"The priority for Hove Lagoon is to make it a hang out place, and to recreate the landscaping, planting, and put in more lighting at night to improve security."

Liz Ward, event manager for Friends of Hove Lagoon, said: "The LagoonFest is to raise money and the profile of the lagoon, and the planting scheme. 

"This scheme is designed by Brighton landscape designer Nicholas Dexter. It includes natural plants, wildflowers and a herb garden and the aim is to attract more people and wildlife to the popular space.

"Hove Lagoon is at the edge of Brighton and it has been neglected, so not many people come to this side of the city. 

"We want to turn it into a popular destination choice for everyone."