Conservationists believe the Downs could become a chalk desert if urgent action is not taken to reduce soil erosion.

A new study shows our once-green hills are quite literally being washed away.

Changes in farming methods and more frequent storms, believed to be caused by global warming, mean the landscape of the Downs could be changed for ever.

Soil erosion can also cause untold misery for people living in valleys.

Residents in Bevendean had a warning of what could be in store when liquid mud swept off surrounding hills into their homes during the floods two weeks ago.

Councils and those in charge of managing the Downs are being warned to look seriously at the problem and come up with solutions.

The first step should be including proposals in the local plan for Brighton and Hove.

Action is needed now - before it's too late.

Sting in the tail The Sussex coast has been hit by hundreds of unusual invaders - deadly Portuguese men-of-war.

People are being warned not to touch the slippery creatures, which have a poisonous sting and can grow tentacles up to ten metres long.

Normally they live in warmer climates, but experts believe this group has been blown over to Sussex by strong winds.

Die-hard sea swimmers would perhaps do best by not taking the plunge until the unwelcome visitors have gone.

All washed up ARGUS editor-in-chief Simon Bradshaw used plenty of elbow grease when he washed a car, bus and van to raise money for our Christmas appeal.

However, Simon came clean and admitted to his boss he sneakily roped in a hose to reach those parts his hands couldn't reach - a clear breach of the rules.

What a cheeky sud.