The hospitality industry in West Sussex aims to make the county a world-class tourist destination.

Researchers sponsored by West Sussex Economic Forum (WSEF)

and the county's Learning and Skill Council have talked to hotels and colleges to find what needs to be done so the sector can grow.

The findings highlighted the need to retain staff and attract newcomers.

The WSEF is now seeking funds to set up scholarship schemes and creating work-placed training programmes, especially for smaller hotels.

Executive officer Pam Foden said: "Developing skills, professionalism and pride in the tourism and hospitality sector is a high priority to take advantage of the substantial growth predicted for the next decade.

"With high employment in the South-East, we must compete effectively in the labour market to recruit and retain part and full time staff.

"Hotels are already making hospitality attractive to staff by offering flexible working hours, day release and on the job training, job share, employee of the month incentives and bonus payments."