The creation of a South Downs National Park should go ahead as soon as possible, say residents of Findon Valley, Worthing.

There was an overwhelming vote in favour of the South Downs National Park at a public meeting organised by the Findon Valley Residents' Association.

After hearing arguments for and against its creation, only four of the 64 people at the meeting rejected the idea.

Robin Crane, chairman of the campaign for national park status, said: "We need a strong, independent national park authority with the resources, power and exclusive interest in the conservation and enhancement of the South Downs."

There was criticism of the failure of West and East Sussex County Councils to protect the Downs.