Brighton and Hove's first and only not-for-profit PR and marketing agency has been officially launched.

And where better to kick-start East Communications than the city's very own social enterprise pub, the Robin Hood?

Set up to promote community projects and organisations in east Brighton, the agency will reinvest its profits to help people develop communication channels to improve quality of life.

The team at East have more than 30 years' experience in the commercial, community and voluntary sectors.

Hannah Corbett, managing director and co-founder, said: "Having worked in both the commercial and community sectors, I believe social enterprises offer the best of both worlds.

"Not only do our clients receive a top agency service but by choosing East, they are helping disadvantaged communities improve their own communications. Having already won an industry award, we are looking to expand our portfolio of clients so our social aims for the city can be achieved."

The agency offers a full range of PR and marketing services, including media relations, newsletters and corporate literature, photography, new media, advertising, brand identity and training packages.

Clifford Conway, president of Brighton and Hove Chamber of Commerce, said: "The chamber is keen to support the starting up of a new business in Brighton and Hove and, in particular, companies that help enhance economic activity in areas of the city that suffer from economic deprivation.

"As part of the chamber's social mission, it is therefore happy to promote the launch event of this new and exciting social enterprise PR agency."

Tuesday, July 19 2005