£50ft peace message

ANTI-war demonstrators painted the word PEACE in 50ft high letters on the southern slopes of Mount Caburn at Lewes early yesterday (Thursday) morning.
By The Newsroom
Published 27th Mar 2003, 15:30 BST
Updated 7th Jun 2018, 22:43 BST

The action has been condemned by nature conservationists.

But Sue Murray of Lewes CND said: 'It was not our work, but we heartily approve of it.'

Malcolm Emery of English Nature, who have a management agreement with owners, the Glynde estate, said: 'We are dismayed that this has happened, well meaning though it may be.

'This is an archaeologically important site.

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'It would be possible to prosecute the offenders, should they be found.'

The damage lies about 100ft from the crown of Caburn on which there is an Iron Age fort dating back to 1000BC.

Mr Emery said the emulsion paint used on the turf would kill the immediate grass there but the turf would soon grow back.

A length of string, obviously used to measure out the letters, was found near the massive piece of graffiti.

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An East Sussex County Council spokesman said: 'It is an offence to damage a site like this which is an area of special scientific interest and a nature reserve.

'We deplore damage like this.'

Elaine Hayes, director of the Sussex Wildlife Trust, said: 'Mount Caburn is an internationally important site and we cannot condone any damage to it.'