People can now sponsor a South Downs landmark in an effort to help raise funds for its restoration.

The Long Man of Wilmington, on a hill close to the A27 near Eastbourne, can now be adopted by sponsors who wish to pay for one of the bricks used in the design.

Those who sponsor the landmark will also get the chance to help with its restoration, which is set to take place in the new year.

Leanne O’Boyle, executive director of the Sussex Archaeological Society, said: “The Long Man of Wilmington is a unique and much-loved historical landmark which we are proud to be custodians of. This is a unique opportunity to play an active role in engaging and maintaining an incredibly important national landmark.

“By sponsoring a piece of the Long Man, you will be supporting our work and helping keep the heritage of Sussex safe and accessible to inspire generations to come.”

Those wishing to sponsor one of the 770 bricks which make up the 72m tall figure will be given a certificate as well as the opportunity to help re-paint the design.

The Argus: The Long Man of Wilmington in the snowThe Long Man of Wilmington in the snow (Image: Sussex Past)

Sponsorships cost £30 for 12 months and can be bought on the Sussex Past website.

The Long Man of Wilmington has stood on the hill since at least the 18th century, when the design was first recorded by surveyor John Rowley.

During the 19th Century, the chalk outline was replaced by yellow bricks, which meant the landmark could only be seen in certain light.

Restoration in 1969 replaced the bricks with concrete blocks that are now regularly painted to keep the Long Man visible from many miles away.

The Long Man has previously been used by protesters.

Most recently in January 2021 a face mask was drawn onto the design in reference to the Covid-19 pandemic.

The design has also been the target of fracking protesters who wrote the words “frack off” above the monument.