Brighton was putting on a brave face today after losing the lucrative 2002 Labour Party conference to Blackpool.

Labour stopped using the Lancashire resort several years ago because of dissatisfaction with its ageing conference centre and the hotels.

But Blackpool has made improvements to the hall and has promised to make life more comfortable for delegates staying there as well.

Brighton hosted Labour this year and the party will return next September - probably after the general election.

Culture director Sarah Tanburn said: "We are always delighted to welcome Labour to Brighton and wanted to do so for the third year in a row.

"We'll be asking Labour for the reasons but it is clear that Blackpool is back on the map again.

"This is a very competitive and fast moving environment and we have to stay ahead of the game."

Brighton and Hove Council is looking at how the Brighton Centre, built in 1977 and showing signs of wear and tear, can be renovated.

But Brighton is still the overwhelming favourite of most Labour delegates who like its lively nightlife, good hotels and the way all attractions are within walking distance.

Lead councillor for culture Ian Duncan said: "This is not a setback. They couldn't keep coming back to Brighton all the time.

"It is a very long journey for a lot of people and they would have complained about it.

"The conference business is getting more cut-throat all the time. We have to keep up our efforts to refurbish or rebuild the Brighton Centre."

Traditionally Labour has alternated between northern and southern resorts. Brighton faces competition in the South from Bournemouth, which hosted Labour last year.

November 29 2000