A SOUTH Downs chalk landmark has been defaced by vandals.

Police are investigating after a mask appears to have been painted across the Long Man of Wilmington, just off the A27.

It seems to be a reference to the current coronavirus rules for us all to wear our facemasks in shops and on public transport.

The 235-foot high figure is carved into the hillside between Eastbourne and Lewes and is a distinctive feature with two staves being held in his hands.

When viewed from below the Long Man looks in proportion, and is considered an ancient monument.

Police say it is protected as such for its historic importance.

 

It is not the first time vandals have targeted the chalk figure.

In 2015 vandals painted the words "frack off" in giant white letters above the Long Man's head.

That was in a row over whether a controversial plan to extract fossil fuels by "fracking" would be allowed by the government, angering residents and campaigners.

A year earlier protesters put down banners over the figure's head which stated: "Stop the racist March for England".

BEST QUAILTY AVAILABLE..Undated handout photo taken with permission from the Twitter feed of @Leadbetter_Good of an anti-fracking slogan above the famous chalk hill carving of the ancient Long Man of Wilmington. PRESS ASSOCIATION Photo. Issue date: Friday

BEST QUAILTY AVAILABLE..Undated handout photo taken with permission from the Twitter feed of @Leadbetter_Good of an anti-fracking slogan above the famous chalk hill carving of the ancient Long Man of Wilmington. PRESS ASSOCIATION Photo. Issue date: Friday

The Long Man of Wilmington is believed to date back thousands of years, and the chalk outline has been in place for possibly 300 or even 400 years.

It has become an image of Sussex which is world famous, appearing on postcards, trinkets, and even now having a brewery bearing its name in Polegate.

The site is owned by the Sussex Archaeological Society.

Police Sergeant Tom Carter said: "While this damage may have been perpetrated for humour or some other reason, the actions that have been taken are unacceptable.

"The Long Man of Wilmington is protected by law as a Scheduled Ancient Monument for its historical significance.

The Argus: The Long Man of Wilmington, pictured by Sussex Archaeological SocietyThe Long Man of Wilmington, pictured by Sussex Archaeological Society

"On top of this the figure is well known and enjoyed by the local community and this criminal damage is an affront to those who work to maintain this heritage asset for the enjoyment of all.

"I would encourage anyone who has knowledge of the perpetrator of this crime to come forward.”

Mark Harrison of Historic England said: “Historic England is working closely with Sussex Police Rural Crime Team to identify the offenders who have caused damage to this protected archaeological site.

"We will also be liaising with the owners in order to provide advice and guidance to restore the Long Man of Wilmington.”

Anyone who witnessed activity on the hillside or who has information as to who caused the damage is asked to report it to Sussex Police online or call 101 quoting serial 687 of 27/01.