The new president of an influential estate agents' organisation is following in his father's footsteps.

Andy Lees has taken the reins at the Brighton and Hove Estate Agents Association for 2002.

He said: "I'm looking forward to the coming year and very optimistic about the future of the business."

In 1987, his father, Geoffrey Lees, was president of the group, which was founded more than 100 years ago.

Mr Lees, 46, a residential partner at Brighton-based Graves Jenkins, has 30 years' experience in the property market.

Outgoing president Gary Pickard, of Hove-based Jacksons, will welcome him to the post during the association's annual dinner tomorrow.

More than 400 estate agents, accountants, solicitors and guests are expected at the Grand Hotel in Brighton.

Mr Lees added: "This event is the main focal point of the year for the association and I'm looking forward to taking the association forward."

Mark Packwood, of Hove-based Packwood Property Services, takes over as vice-president.

The association's charities this year are special needs Chailey Heritage School, in North Chailey, and Activenture, which organises outdoor pursuits holidays for the disabled, in Ashdown Forest.