The Argus Appeal 2000 is going from strength to strength thanks to a new partnership with local business Legal and General.

The Hove firm, based in Montefiore Road, which employs up to 1,200 people, will be supporting the charity for this coming season with major sponsorship.

Gianna Dodd, Legal and General internal marketing manager and appeal trustee, said: "We are very supportive in the local community and, as a trustee, I have been party to some of the hard work that goes on to make the appeal a success.

"The Evening Argus is working very hard to revamp the appeal and reach even more people. We are very happy to be involved and will hopefully raise even more money so we can help even more local charities."

Appeal co-ordinator Elsa Gillio welcomed the news.

She said: "We are delighted Legal and General are on board with the appeal.

"The appeal has been relaunched this year and this is the first time it has had a major sponsor. We have a number of new initiatives planned which will help us reach our target and help the people of Sussex."

The Argus Appeal 2000 will be officially launched at the Grand Hotel in September.

A short factual video about the work of the charity, presented by ITN newsreader Nicholas Owen, will be premiered at the event.

Now in its 43rd year, the appeal reaches the heart of the community helping thousands of people across Sussex annually.

It is one of the only charities which guarantees every penny of donations goes to good causes as the Argus covers administration costs.

The elderly, young, disabled and community groups are all helped with donations of equipment they could not otherwise afford.

For more information about raising money for the appeal or to ask for a grant contact Elsa Gillio, c/o The Argus, Argus House, Crowhurst Road, Hollingbury, Brighton, BN1 8AR.