A couple are trying to curb plans for a sports field on an open space in Peacehaven on the grounds it has a history as a public right of way.

David and Val Phillips, of Edith Avenue, lodged an official application with East Sussex County Council to legally recognise a public highway across Joff Field, next to their homes.

They have unearthed evidence showing there has been a public right of way through the field which can be traced back to the creation of the town in 1914.

If their bid is successful, they could jeopardise educational plans to develop the field for use by pupils at the £30 million Peacehaven Community School.

Charles Neville conjured up plans of creating a community in the area with homes built along roads created on a grid system similar to the American model.

Edith Avenue in Peacehaven used to run right down to the cliff edge but in the Sixties part of it was grassed over, which became Joff Field, turning part of Edith Avenue into a cul-de-sac.

Despite the road disappearing under grass and becoming a recreation area, it has continued to be used by cyclists and pedestrians.

Mr and Mrs Phillips say they have a deed to their home which includes a covenant stating they have a legal right to access the whole length of Edith Road.

Mr Phillips said this meant the council could not block their route with the school development.

He said the through route was marked on maps as far back as 1928 and on Ordnance Survey maps.

They have completed official forms, enclosed maps dating back as far as the 19th Century and got ten witnesses to agree residents have been using the field as a right of way for more than 40 years.

The couple believe this continual use of the route means a public right of way has been established for the legally required period of 25 years.

However, the council has said the land has always been earmarked for educational use and it will be developed for use by the pupils at the community school.

A spokeswoman said: "It has been checked with our legal people and we don't know of any protected rights of way across Joff Field."