Brighton and Hove is likely to have its first Liberal Democrat mayor next year.

The party, which has only three members on the 78-strong city council, is expected to be offered the choice of first citizen by the ruling Labour group.

Current mayor Harry Steer is a Labour member but the post is offered to the opposition every three years in proportion to the number of councillors.

The first Tory mayor of Brighton and Hove in 1999 was Jenny Langston, who proved to be popular and energetic.

Labour councillors made it clear after a group meeting that they are prepared to support a Lib Dem nomination when the council chooses the mayor elect next month.

Council leader Ken Bodfish welcomed the group's decision but acknowledged it would be a disappointment to the main opposition Tory party.

He added: "We do feel the contribution made by minority groups should be recognised and this is one way of doing it."

Liberal Democrat group leader Paul Elgood said he had not had official notification from the Labour group.

But he said that if it was offered, the group was likely to accept.

Coun Elgood said: "It would be a great honour for the party and a major boost for the Brunswick and Adelaide ward which we all represent.

"A Liberal Democrat mayor would also open the national party conference in September which will be an important week for us and the city."

The most likely choice if there is a Lib Dem mayor is David Watkins, who has played an active role on the council.