A group of bed and breakfast operators has launched its third accommodation guide.

The independent Lewes Area Bed and Breakfast Group marked the launch with a party, which was attended by Lewes MP Norman Baker.

He said: "I am delighted to see you prospering, not only for yourselves but for the benefit of the town and the immediate area.

"It is very important for a place like Lewes that relies so heavily on tourism, that we have not only a thriving B&B community but one which is respected elsewhere, which I believe is the case here."

The Mayor of Lewes, councillor Barbara Riddihough, said: "Carry on the good work and we'll do everything we can to help you."

There are 38 properties in the new brochure, including four new ones. All are inspected by an external body.

The group was started four years ago.

More than 30,000 copies of the new guide are published every year.

The guide is distributed to shops, restaurants and pubs in the area as well as Lewes Town Hall, Glyndebourne, Sussex University, Bluebell Railway, Charleston and National Trust properties.

Log on to www. lewes-area-bed-and-breakfast.com for more details.