Well known Brighton face Mike Mendoza is joining the team raising funds for the Argus Appeal.

The broadcaster and journalist has lived in the town for more than 18 years and is a former presenter for BBC Radio Sussex and Radio Mercury in Crawley.

He is a former Brighton chairman of the Variety Club of Great Britain and has compered at several Argus Appeal events over the past four years.

Now he has stood down from the Variety Club in order to bring his expertise to the Argus Appeal.

He said: "I have been involved with charities for many years and I am helping with the Argus Appeal because I think it is a worthwhile charity, not just because it helps children but the whole community."

Mike has already begun work organising several exciting events to help raise money.

As well as the glamorous launch party at the Grand Hotel in Brighton on September 9 for this year's appeal, he is also planning a line dancing evening, a dinner dance at a local restaurant and a major fashion show.

He said: "It will be a record year this year. I am hoping to help raise lots and lots of money to help the community and make this year's appeal better than ever."

Argus Appeal co-ordinator Elsa Gillio said she is looking forward to working with Mike.

She said: "We have known Mike for many years. He will bring with him both experience and professionalism which will take the Argus Appeal to even greater heights."

Now in its 43rd year, the Argus Appeal reaches the heart of the community helping thousands of people across Sussex annually.

Last year it raised more than £50,000 thanks to the generosity of Argus readers.

It guarantees every penny of donations goes to good causes thanks to the newspaper which covers all the administration costs.

The elderly, young, disabled and community groups are all helped with donations of equipment they could not otherwise afford.

The Argus Appeal is supported by Legal and General.

For more information about raising money for the appeal or to ask for a grant contact Elsa Gillio, c/o The Argus, Argus House, Crowhurst Road, Hollingbury, Brighton, BN1 8AR.