The Brighton and Hove branch of the Gay Business Association has welcomed the news that Rainbow Law is opening.

The association says gay people have always felt more at ease dealing with gay-friendly businesses where they can be sure their sexuality will not get in the way.

As well as openly-gay pubs and nightclubs, there is now a trend for less visible businesses that are gay-friendly, including opticians and bed-and-breakfast hotels.

Earlier this year, Isis Financial Planners, a firm specialising in financial advice for gay clients, was launched in Brighton.

And a new estate agent, 4 Sale, has opened offices in Brighton and Hove.Its rainbow sales boards have become a familiar site across the city.

Kevin Newman, who runs the business with Richard Briggs-Price, said: "When we first started out we were not sure what the response would be to an openly gay estate agency. But we have been delighted with the reception everyone has given us. We deal with everyone but a lot of our clients are gay."

Next month, thousands of people are expected to attend the annual Pride festival at Preston Park in Brighton.

Last year, a record 60,000 attended the event, spending an estimated £2 million in the city.