A famous South Downs dew pond is being restored to its former glory.

The pond at Amberley Mount, near Arundel was painted by celebrated local artist Felicia Lieven-Bauwens in the 1930s.

The South Downs National Park Authority, Castle Farm Partnership and the South Downs Volunteer Ranger Service, are working together on the restoration.

South Downs National Park ranger Simon Mockford said: “The pond at Amberley Mount is one of a number of dew ponds located high on the South Downs that would once have been used to water sheep out on the dry chalky hills.

“But changes in farming practices together with an increased ability to use cattle troughs and piped water have led to their decline.”

It is believed the Amberley dew pond was last used for watering sheep in 1952.

The idea to restore the dew pond came from Paul Strudwick whose family have farmed the area since 1903 and is keen to encourage wildlife on his farm.

The pond was dug out and relined with clay and rangers will complete the finishing touches which will include installation of a post and rail fence around the pond.

The pond is expected to fill up with rainwater over the winter and will eventually become a wetland haven for wildlife, including birds, dragonflies and damselflies.

Amberley Society chairman Grahame Joseph said: “Amberley Mount pond's exact origin is lost in history but it was probably created during the 17th or 18th centuries when the South Downs was the main sheep producing region in the country.”