One of the South-East's leading entertainment agencies has doubled in size after taking over one of its main rivals.

Lea Graham Entertainment, in Valebridge Road, Burgess Hill, has bought Crowborough-based The Right Note for an undisclosed sum.

The takeover has doubled the number of entertainers on Lea's books to almost 2,000, including singers, magicians, after-dinner speakers and string quartets.

Lea has also gained a number of prestigious clients in the merger, including the Grosvenor Hotel in London, Nutfield Priory in Surrey and Leeds Castle in Kent.

Wartime singer Dame Vera Lynn and actress Judy Cornwell were among 60 clients and friends who gathered at the firm's headquarters to toast the acquisition.

Managing director Susan Fleet, who set the company up in 1986, said: "Over the past few years we have established a reputation for providing first-class entertainment for both the corporate and personal markets.

"The acquisition builds on that success and we are proud and delighted to take over an agency which shared the same values of standards and service."

Former Right Note owner Rachel Munns is giving up the business to spend more time with her young family and promote her own successful party band, Evening Star.

Seven years ago Rachel turned to Susan for advice on running an entertainments agency after giving up a career in broadcast journalism.

Rachel had unwittingly tried to win business from one of Lea Graham's clients, Ashdown Park in Forest Row, before approaching Susan for a few tips. Ever since, the pair have enjoyed a friendly and constructive rivalry - even matching up entertainers and venues whenever it was mutually beneficial.

When Rachel decided to sell her business Sarah was given first pickings.

Lea, which employs eight people and doubles as public relations company Lea Graham Associates, provides entertainment for corporate events across the South-East.

It also specialises in weddings, personal celebrations and after-dinner speeches, often at luxury hotels.

Susan said: "We pride ourselves on meeting every request, no matter how individual, with top quality performers.

"We are a can-do company and expansion means we can do even more."

Monday September 13, 2004