A new Tory think-tank on ways of working more closely with voluntary organisations has been welcomed by the party's prospective candidates for Brighton.

David Gold, prospective parliamentary candidate for Brighton Pavilion, said The Renewing One Nation Unit was good news for charities.

He has launched a consultation exercise running over six weeks to find out the views of those who work within the voluntary sector.

He said: "I am always humbled by the dedication and service which volunteers and professionals show to the vulnerable and needy in our society.

"I hope that the survey I am leading in Brighton will help to highlight the value of the voluntary sector in Brighton, but I also hope what will become clear are the areas where more help is needed from local and national government in terms of legislation, regulation and most probably, financial support."

Copies of the survey can be obtained from the Brighton Conservative Office on 01273 571199.

The Renewing One Nation Unit was also welcomed by Brighton Kemptown hopeful Geoffrey Theobald.

He said: "I particularly welcome building relationships with charities, voluntary groups, churches and other faith communities, and the aim of helping charities taxation, public involvement and regulation."