DJ Fatboy Slim's summer dance gig on the beach will be broadcast live on television.

Thousands of people are expected at this year's Big Beach Boutique in Brighton, believed to be Europe's biggest beach party on July 13.

Last year's free concert was sponsored by Channel 4 and attracted 40,000 people.

Thousands more people will be able to watch this summer's gig live on E4.

Hove-based Fatboy Slim, alias Norman Cook, will meet estimated costs of £200,000 to £250,000 himself.

Brighton and Hove city councillors gave the go-ahead for the major open-air event after the success of the event last summer.

Cabinet culture councillor Ian Duncan said: "Last year's show was the highlight of 2001.

"It was a classic night out, bringing free entertainment to thousands.

"That is what Brighton and Hove should be all about, particularly during the year when we're bidding to be European Capital of Culture in 2008."

Headlining act Fatboy Slim, who lives with wife Zoe Ball and young son Woody, will be joined by John Digweed and Midfield General.

The same production company as last year, Alex Poots, will be involved with the beach gig, which will run from 6.30pm to 11pm.

Setting up for the event will start at 8am on Friday, July 12. After the concert, cleaners will tidy the beach overnight.

Organisers are planning an official after-show party at the Concorde 2 club on Brighton seafront.

DJs on the night will be Erol Alkan and James from Trash, along with Soulwax DJs and Audio Bullys.

Last year's beach event was staged as part of the Channel 4 cricket tour and was accompanied by a firework display launched from the West Pier.

The event was named the Big Beach Boutique after legendary club night the Big Beat Boutique, which launched Norman's DJ career.