The focus was on fast food at an exhibition by the multi-billion pound hospitality industry held in Brighton.

The annual Cafe 2000 exhibition is the largest trade event of its kind in the country, attracting more than 6,000 visitors during its three-day run at the Brighton Centre.

The event's full title, Catering And Fast Food Expo 2000, reflects the wide range of goods and services on display related to the modern food service market.

The majority of exhibitors were from businesses based in the South-East, with Sussex represented in force.

Charlotte Lawson, director of business and UK services at Food for Britain, officially opened the event.

She said: "The UK speciality sector is in excellent shape with total sales valued at £3.6 billion.

"There is evidence of an increasing demand from consumers for high-quality local food that offers clear tracebility and local distinctiveness."

This view was supported by regional food group, A Taste of the South East, which represents more than 150 producers of speciality local goods.

Regional director for the group Jo Cummings, said: "We are delighted by the interest being shown by many caterers for using local suppliers, in particular by promoting local food on their menus."

Managing director of Southwick-based food distributor Southover Food Company Limited Steve Wallis, said: "This is a great chance to network and there is a good range of quality exhibitors making this a strong trade event."

Cafe 2000 marketing director Anna Wallis said: "The expo is now in its second year and is recognised as the premier showcase for our industry in the UK."