Petanque players are hoping they will be able to attract the world championships to Sussex.

New president Mike Land told the annual meeting of the Brighton and Hove Petanque Club: "Brighton has one of the largest petanque terrains in the region in an unrivalled seafront location.

"There will be an even better terrain, clubhouse and indoor terrain as part of the seafront development programme. The club is also in the final stages of negotiation with the city council.

"We're very excited about this development and are confident it will attract even more members to the club.

"Brighton is an extremely popular resort and has all the potential and facilities to attract major national and international petanque events.

"The world championship was held in the UK in 1979 and we'd love to see it return in the future with Brighton as the venue."

Publicity officer, Ray Ager said: "Petanque has proved to be very successful on the seafront with players and large numbers of spectators.

"We have a varied programme of monthly events throughout the year in addition to regular weekly social games. New members are welcome and spare boules are available."

The terrain is just west of the West Pier and there is another at Hove Lagoon. For further information, call 01273 888320.