Lobbyists from across the country have been putting the finishing touches to their stands ahead of the Labour party conference.

Dozens of exhibitors are expected to come to Brighton as they try and influence decision makers from across the country during the four-day event.

Among the trade stands already built in the Brighton Centre were those from energy firm E.On and the Campaign for Real Ale.

Bizarrely there is also one promoting the merits of Manchester – one of Brighton’s biggest conference competitors.

When asked, a Brighton Centre official joked: “I know but they do let us go there so it’s only fair.”