Welcome to Sussex – a county split into East and West, that is rich in heritage, culture, natural beauty and leisure opportunities. With such an appealing quality of life, it is no wonder that the county is such a popular place to live and work.

Located on the south coast of Britain, Sussex is separated from London by Surrey to the north and Hampshire to the west.

Around 750, 000 people call the county home (Source: 2001 Census). Another quarter of a million people live in the Brighton and Hove City Council area which is nestled on the south coast.

Burgess Hill – the base for Roche's UK diagnostics business – Sussex is located about ten miles north of Brighton.

If you’re looking for the country life, look no further. Sussex is one of the most wooded counties in the country with substantial proportions designated as areas of outstanding natural beauty. If you prefer a bit of bustle, the vibrant city of Brighton and Hove is on your doorstep and there are a wealth of small towns and villages including the historic towns of Lewes in the east and Arundel in the west.

The area is very well connected with easy access by air, rail, road and sea. There is a good network of A roads and the M23 in the north links up with the M25. London Gatwick Airport in the far north east of the county helps more than 32 million passengers travel to more than 200 destinations every year.

Main train lines run along the south coast and north to south lines provide direct trains into London. The cross-channel ferry ports at Newhaven and Portsmouth are also nearby.

Economically, around 80 per cent of people working in Sussex are employed in the service sectors. Thanks to Gatwick Airport, there is also a higher concentration of people working in transport and communications. Small firms predominate and large companies tend to be concentrated in what is known as the "Gatwick Diamond” districts (Crawley, Horsham and Mid Sussex).

The county councils maintain the state schools across Sussex, as well as a number of other activity centres and education establishments. There is also a wide choice of private schools across the county.

Out of work, there’s plenty to see and do for the whole family – whether you prefer exploring the city or countryside, or just enjoying the seaside.

Go cycling or walking in the rolling chalk hills of the South Downs, which run through the middle of the county or explore the rich countryside of the Weald. Take a boat out in the sheltered waters and quiet creeks of Chichester Harbour of head out to sea from marinas scattered along the coast.

Visit a stately home or castle or an art gallery. Have a flutter at the racecourses or admire the cars at one of Goodwood’s world renowned events. Attend a music festival, visit a glorious garden or indulge yourself at designer shops. There’s equally as much choice when it comes to dining out and entertainment – from stylish restaurants, organic cafes and idyllic country pubs to trendy bars and clubs.

So if you are thinking of joining Roche in Sussex, you can be sure that outside of work your study, rest or play will also be well catered for.