Millions of television viewers are expected to watch a Hove restaurateur being rejected by a potential investor on Channel 4 this autumn.

Tamra Shanly, owner of the Saucy restaurant on Church Road, was filmed for the Real Deal documentary series as she heard the bad news.

Ms Shanly's request for funding was turned down by Luke Johnson, chairman of the trendy Belgium Belgo chain of eateries.

She said: "I was slightly defensive because it was my baby. I felt unprepared.

"It was my first pitch and I have learnt so much from it. You have got to be prepared for knockbacks. I don't know how I'll come across."

She said she took part in the programme to learn more about applying to investors.

The money was to go towards developing a new restaurant and refitting the current site.

Saucy was one of three new food businesses featured in the film. It was joined by a bar in Oxford and a soup and juice bar in Glasgow. It has not been all bad news for the restaurant.

A favourable review in the Guardian recently boosted business. Ms Shanly said:

"Since then we've been really busy."

Saucy specialises in traditional English food.

Real Deal will be screened on September 4.