Football matches could be banned from the lawns on Hove seafront after protests by residents.

They say the organised games in the evenings and at weekends are spoiling the use of the area for others.

Residents called for local bylaws preventing use of the lawns between Grand Avenue and the Peace Statue to be properly enforced.

They joined local councillors in putting their case at a meeting with Sarah Tanburn, Brighton and Hove City Council's director of culture and regeneration.

Beach barbecues, cycling on the promenade, rather than in designated cycle lanes, and general vandalism in the area were also discussed.

Last year the council rejected calls for football to be banned, saying it was a healthy activity, but now the council is considering a rethink.

Brunswick and Adelaide councillor Paul Elgood said: "Organised football matches have caused residents much concern. These are not small groups enjoying the open space as intended but organised football games blocking the use of others of much of the lawn areas.

"These residents want to see the lawns enjoyed by all. There is a balance to be struck and the council should be doing more to ensure the local community can enjoy their open space.

"The council must now act to ensure bylaws are enforced and proposals are brought forward to tackle the problems faced by residents."

Paul Mitchell, chairman of the Friends of Brunswick Square and Terrace, said: "I hope the council understands the strength of feeling about this."

Richard Hawkes, chairman of the Friends of Palmeira Square and Adelaide Crescent, said: "The lawns are not suitable for full-scale games of adult football and the council have at last accepted this."