Moves to stop racehorses training on a popular section of the Downs are being stepped up after a greyhound was injured by a galloping horse.

Lewes trainer Jamie Poulton has agreed to pay the veterinary bills for the dog after accepting one of his horses was responsible.

The incident happened on the morning of February 6, when the greyhound was being walked by his owner, from East Saltdean.

The collision has rekindled the debate over usage of the area, called the Tye, which was bought for the people of Telscombe by Telscombe Town Council in 1989.

Dog owners and walkers are angry the Tye is being used for training and fast riding and, with councillors, want to see plans implemented to fence the area.

Agreement has already been reached to have most of it enclosed and it is hoped money will soon be found so the work can start.

However, the scheme may have to wait until the proposed South Downs national park is created.

Riders and trainers say the land has always been public and, with its wide ridge, is ideal for fast riding.

A spokeswoman for Mr Poulton said: "Racehorses have been training on the Tye since 1800.

"The incident with the dog was very unfortunate and we are in touch with the owner and have agreed to pay the veterinary bills.

"We are very sorry about what happened. All our horses are fully under control when on the Tye."

Councillor David Neighbour, who represents Telscombe at county, district and town level, said: "There is a lot of concern about fast riding on the Tye.

"There have been a lot of near misses, where excited or frightened dogs have just managed to dodge horses' hooves.

"Advice from a leading QC and the Jockey Club has been taken and they agree training of racehorses on Telscombe Tye is illegal and we have put notices up to that effect.

"But banning the training is very difficult to enforce. We need to properly regulate the Tye and get it fenced as soon as possible, so it is safe for everyone to use."