Plans to close a village pub and turn it into houses have been thrown out but campaigners fear it could still get the go-ahead.

Developers wanted to turn the Sandrock Inn at Ditchling, near Lewes, into two homes but the move was opposed by villagers who collected more than 100 names on a petition.

There were also plans to convert the pub's garage and store into a house, build three cottages and another detached cottage behind the pub.

Now villagers are expecting developers to appeal against the decision.

Michael Stratford, of High Street, urged villagers not to be complacent about the decision.

He said: "This is simply the first round. The campaign will continue and it is important the vigilance of the village keeps going.

"If you take your eye off the ball you find it has gone to appeal and got through and no one has noticed."

Mr Stratford said if houses were built on the site it would increase traffic on High Street and impede emergency vehicles.

He said: "The Sandrock is an integral part of the village and, although there is an argument that there are two other pubs, they are all very different.

"The Sandrock is very much a village pub. If one village pub goes, then the next, you suddenly find you are left with just one pub and no choice. It is a dreadful shame."

When Stephen Woodward bought the pub eight months ago he told residents he had no plans to close.

But the plans were revealed by chartered surveyors Clifford Dann before Christmas.

A spokeswoman for Lewes District Council said the application had been refused because it was "detrimental to the setting and conservation area".

She said councillors thought there was inadequate visibility for the exits from the houses on to the roads and the layout of the plans was unacceptable for development.

The developers sent the council amended plans but it was too late to consider them.

They now have the option of appealing against the refusal or submitting a new application.

Tom Dufty, Ditchling Society chairman, said: "We are quite pleased we have won this round.

"It is very important we preserve that aspect of the village as it is very attractive and historic.

"But it is most likely the developers will submit a modified application."

Mr Dufty said the society was particularly concerned about any effect new houses would have on the view around Ditchling as it was a very prominent site.