Like most civic mayors, Mike Northeast wants to sing the praises of his town.

But Mike's role does not just mean he flags up Littlehampton's good points and turns up at official functions - he has commissioned a pop song about the seaside spot too.

CD single A Place In The Sun went on sale at the weekend. It is described as celebrating the good things Littlehampton has to offer, including the resort's regular position at the top of the UK sunshine league. The town's song was composed by Littlehampton-based songwriter Joe Butt and is performed by his band, No Ordinary Joe.

Mike said: "Joe's lyrics accurately describe the local people's affection for their town and their determination to work together to improve Littlehampton as a place to live, work and visit. The song captures the spirit of the Littlehampton 2000 concept I started when I was mayor five years ago.

Guests at a mayoral function last year heard the song for the first time. Then TV weatherman Ian McCaskill joined in the number at Littlehampton's Christmas lights switch-on. The CD has been sponsored by Littlehampton Town Council, Littlehampton Town Centre Action Group and five local businesses. But only 1,000 copies have been pressed and the CD is only on sale in Littlehampton.

Mike said: "Who knows how the single will do? We will have to see about videos, tour dates and Top of the Pops! It all started when we were trying to think of something different to do to celebrate the millennium.

"We've never had one before and as far as we know we are the only town to be doing it. The idea is to promote the town and make the most of the fact we are the sunniest place in the country.

Mike believes Littlehampton's sunny climate has something to do with its position between the Downs, which makes it a giant suntrap.