A top skater says local teams have been shut out of a huge showcase festival.

Skate 2003 returns to Eastbourne seafront on Saturday, July 26.

When Scott Clark, captain of the senior team of the Brighton Streetstormers inline hockey club, tried to enter his team for a mini-tournament, he found he the competition swamped with sides from London.

Mr Clark, from Brighton, who plays for Great Britain, said: "Nobody in my league knows anything about this. I spoke to one of the tournament organisers who said someone else was organising the hockey. I found out it was someone up in Heathrow and the teams taking part were from Balham and other areas of London."

Event organiser Tim Wheals said the show was open to as many teams as possible.

He said he had written to as many skating clubs as he could find, inviting them to join in and registration was also extended through the Skate 2003 web site.

Mr Wheals said: "I think it's clear that every reasonable step has been made to open the event to as many people as possible. However, in talks with Scott, it has become clear that several schools in Eastbourne have not received posters concerning the event.

"Steps are being taken to rectify that in the short term and for Skate 2004.

"Additionally, as SkaterZone have filled all their tournament spaces, Scott has been offered to play, demo and coach on our outdoor rink, Saturday and Sunday, plus have an information stand for his club should he want one.

"If he takes us up on the offer, which is still open to other types of hockey yet to respond, then hockey will be even better represented at Skate 2003."

The event, which attracts upwards of 150,000 visitors, is in its sixth year.

Highlights this year include hockey and speed slalom demonstrations, a roller disco, ramps and instruction from the events.