Frustrated musicians are on a mission to prove Brighton's music scene can rival the biggest in the UK.

Brighton Underground, a group offering support to creative city dwellers, believes burgeoning talent should be given more recognition.

It has commissioned a survey to show the Government that the industry is at the forefront of the local economy.

Peter Carr, co-founder and chairman, has sent out hundreds of questionnaires to show the South East England Development Agency (Seeda) they deserve help.

He said: "The music industry in Brighton is one of the biggest in the country but not everybody knows that.

"There are more than 400 music businesses in Brighton and they are not getting the support other businesses are getting.

"Nationally, everyone says Brighton has a great music scene."

The survey asks people questions such as the number of employees on their books, their turnover and how much business they do in Brighton compared to the rest of the country.

Peter, 37, of Western Road, Brighton, said the response had so far been encouraging.

He said: "On the basis of the ones we've had back, we reckon the industry is worth about £200 million. On that basis, we should be getting funding.

"The main purpose is to support up-and-coming acts by giving them advice such as where to find recording studios.

"We also give advice to record companies, of which there are about 50 in Brighton, on how to sign the talent."

The group say the pot which could be made available by Seeda is worth £100,000.

Paula Murray, art and creative industries manager at Brighton and Hove City Council, said the bid was getting their full backing, although she appreciated the need for some hard evidence.

She said: "Everyone feels there is a buzzing music scene in Brighton but there is only anecdotal evidence.

"If we are going to build on the industry we need more than that to go on.

"Regional development agencies do have funds for this kind of thing but they don't want to hand over the money based only on a hunch."

She added the council was taking the music industry seriously.

"One in five jobs in Brighton are defined as being in the creative sector, so the industry is potentially huge.

"The council has just created a new position, creative industries support officer, with this in mind, and I know the person appointed will be focusing on music as one of her priorities. It's an exciting time."

To find out more about Brighton Underground, log on to www.brightonunderground.com