Controversial plans to send a Worthing delegation to China for the worldwide Nations In Bloom contest will go ahead.

Mayor Valerie Sutton and two council officers are expected to fly to Shenzhen at the end of next month.

Council leader Brian Lynn used his casting vote in favour of the journey after councillors were split 3-3.

The final has attracted entrants from Australia, the USA, Spain, Sweden and Ecuador, but there was concern about taxpayers' money funding the trip.

The cost was to have been £7,000, but Councillor Tim Dice managed to raise sponsorship and reduce the price to £1,500.

Coun Dice said he was delighted at the decision. He said the event was an opportunity to promote the town on an international stage.