The latest additions to Brighton's Walk of Fame were officially welcomed at a Christmas party with a showbiz flavour. Former Crossroads star and radio presenter JoAnne Good, comedian Julian Clary, actress Julie Graham and Brian Capron - Coronations Street's serial killer Tricky Dicky - were officially at the event at the Seattle Hotel, Brighton Marina.

The fifth celebrity, Chris Adams, Sussex County Cricket Captain, has been presented with an honorary Walk of Fame plaque. The five were chosen after a poll in the Argus asked readers who should join the 100 stars who already feature.

Personalities have been chosen for their contribution to Brighton's history and image as a showbiz city. Starting off with George IV, who as Prince Regent commissioned the building of the Royal Pavillion, the Walk also includes more contemporary names such as boxer Chris Eubank and comedian Mark Little.

Each stone has it's own category with motifs representing sport, stage and screen, music, broadcasting and entrepreneurs. With stars from stage and television, singer Leo Sayer was also celebrating a landmark 30 years in show business as last nights event. Leo, a frequent visitor to Brighton & Hove, said he may move back to Sussex. He is hoping to sell his Buckinghamshire home and return to what he regards as his home city.

"I love Brighton & Hove, always regarded it as home. I live in Amersham at the moment but I have always wanted to return home. It is events like this which make me want to come and live here again" The star was born at Southlands Hospital, Shoreham, where his late father Tom was the engineer in charge, was discovered by David Courtney, who is behind the Walk of Fame, and the late Adam Faith.

Brian Capron arrived at last night's event directed from the national TV awards dinner in London. The actor, who lives in Hove, still causes a stir in the wake of his performances, which sent Coronation Street audience ratings soaring. Amongst last night's guests were model Sam James, from Brighton, and the girl band Dead Sexy Ladies. Another ex-Coronation Street actor, Kevin Kennedy, was joined by comedian Mark Little, author James Herbert, actor Michael Jayston, comedian Les Dennis, and boxer Chris Eubank. Actor Steven Tompkinson was also there, s well as newsreader Carol Barnes.

Rowan Dore
The Argus