It is usually the location for stimulating debate on parking, planning and public health. But for one weekend only, a town hall will have just three things on its agenda: love, sex and intimacy.

Organisers behind The Love, Sex and Intimacy Fair at Hove Town Hall on October 19 and 20 say the event is the first of its kind anywhere in the world.

The Brighton-based team behind the project say they are looking to reclaim sex from porn in the same way that the St George’s Cross flag is being reappropriated from the far right.

Pyschotherapist Steve Griffiths, counsellor Stuart Tipping and artist Laura Griffiths say they hope the event will launch a “sexual revolution” and could be taken to other cities around the UK.

They added they are considering launching a teen-based version of the event in response to how they perceive porn has changed adolescent approaches to sex and the “lamentable” state of sex education in schools.

Mrs Griffiths said: “This subject is becoming increasingly topical and we want to help take back ownership of sex.

“We feel very much that pornography has taken ownership of sex in the same way that the far right took ownership of the St George’s Cross.

“It’s a serious event, it’s not erotica. We are looking to overcome the giggling Benny Hill, Carry On approach to sex that the British have.”

Speakers at the over-18 event include author of the latest edition of the Joy of Sex, Susan Quillam.

Other events include a tantric tent for intimate discussion and a love tree where fair attendees can make offerings and place wishes under.

Mr Griffiths said: “The response we have had through emails is why has it taken so long for an event like this which is about something so fundamental.

“You can go to fairs about cupcakes so why can’t you go to fairs about something so integral?”

Mr Tipping added: “We are very excited and hoping that Brighton is the start of a sexual revolution.

“What is different about this is that anybody pottering down the high street can drop in.

“People who might be too intimidated to go into a sex shop, can come along and say to their partner ‘I’ve always wanted to try this’ but were previously too scared to say, they might pick up a latex dress or just a book of love poetry.

“I think this event is for everybody, most people aspire to become intimate with someone in their lives. It’s not just about sex, it’s about intimacy and love.”

For more details visit www.lovesexandintimacy.co.uk