Angry residents in Hurstpierpoint called an urgent meeting with county council officers to voice their concerns over the demise of up to ten pairs of antique kissing gates leading to footpaths across farmland.

At the same time they have launched an urgent appeal for the return of the old gates left by the path in Policeman's Lane which have been taken away.

Tim Jones said at least four sets of gates were antiques and the ones in Policeman's Lane had been in very good condition.

He said: "Two were very ornate and beautiful things."

But, he said, the meeting with one of the county council's rights of way officer had been constructive.

Another resident rang the Middy to complain about the kissing gates being removed from the footpath off Bull Finch Lane between Pakyns Farm and Washbrooke Farm.

A county council spokesman said: "At present, West Sussex County Council is waiting to hear from representatives of the parish council, amenity groups and private groups in the New Year, regarding the restoration of the old kissing-gates in Hurstpierpoint."

Anyone who knows anything about the whereabouts of the gates is asked to contact Tim Jones on 07957830871 or contact Hurst Society on www.hurstpierpointsociety.org