BRIGHTON'S oldest independent firm has urged businesses to 'keep calm and carry on trading' in the wake of the Brexit referendum vote.

Parsons Son & Basley, an estate agent and auctioneer which has traded for 190 years, believes the city has a bright future and companies have weathered economic storms in the past despite challenges they faced.

Partners Geoff Holden and Keith Brinsmead urged people to keep calm and carry on trading.

A joint statement said: "Investors will be looking for opportunities to protect and grow their assets and it is for all of us in Brighton to welcome them to our city.

"Brighton and Hove has always been a good place to invest in property, since Prince Regent’s time. Its location being by the sea with cosmopolitan shopping and with train links to London make it a prime place to live. Challenging times give us the opportunity to review our practises, and become more cost effective."

Kristy Adams, their business development manager, said: "Fear and anxiety have become significant words in the last few weeks, yet I believe we have resourceful people in Sussex that can face economic challenge and bring hope out of it.

"We can develop resilient businesses that can weather the storms, provide jobs and training and keep the city vibrant. Let us maximise the opportunities for business in Brighton and Hove and create a bright future."