The MP has launched a campaign to give it a spruce up and some much-needed repairs.

He wants people to call or write to him to report troublespots.

Mr Baker said: 'Lewes is a wonderful town, but frankly, it is looking a bit scruffy.

'I regret to say that I have been receiving an increasing number of complaints from residents and visitors about the state of the town, and I have to admit they have a point.

'Let's tidy up Lewes and make our county town one to be proud of.'

He said problems include the town's public toilets, blocked drains, faded signs, damaged pavements, and tarmac being laid over the top of attractive stone pavements.

Mr Baker said: 'I am asking people to contact me with their concerns, either by post or email and I will compile a list and invite councillors and council officials from both district and county councils to accompany me around the town to inspect the places of concern.'

Civic group the Friends of Lewes is supporting Mr Baker's campaign.
Anthony Dicks, a committee member of the group, said: 'I'm pleased to see our MP is taking this issue up.

'There has been a lot of effort by people to do something about this already.

'Cllr Ruth O'Keeffe has worked tirelessly and has also encouraged other people to take part in litter picks.

'This also following hot on the heels of the Friends of Lewes trying to ensure parts of Lewes in the conservation area are repaired using the right materials rather than just bodged with blacktop, and this week we met with the Highways Department to discuss that very problem.'

Email Norman Baker at: normanbaker@cix.co.uk