The oldest conservation group in the South Downs could drop its Sussex tag after 77 years.

The Society of Sussex Downsmen wants to move with the times and many members believe a new name is needed to reflect changing priorities.

The title that has won the most support so far is the South Downs Society.

A new national park in the Downs is likely to include large parts of Hampshire, adding weight to arguments the Sussex tag should be abandoned.

The society was formed in Brighton in 1923 and the name confirmed the following year.

When conservationists packed the Royal Pavilion at the society's first meeting, urban sprawl was the main fear.

Today the group's role has expanded to include conservation, education and campaigning.

Chairman Richard Reed said the name gave a "slightly fuddy-duddy" impression and did not give people a clear idea of what the Downsmen do.

He said: "If a national park covers Hampshire as well, Sussex, sadly, is not quite enough.

"The name which was coined in 1923 is more difficult to fit into modern usage, but we are obviously going to think hard about it. We might decide not to change it."

Some members, like John O'Riley, want to keep Sussex a part of the society's name.

He said: "I think local links are very important and this is one of them."