An iconic lighthouse which has lit the way for thousands of sailors for more than 100 years could switch off its lights – because most ships have been fitted with Sat Navs.

The red and white hooped Beachy Head lighthouse, which first became operational in 1902, is among a list of lighthouses that could be permanently darkened by Trinity House, the organisation responsible for navigational aids around our coasts.

The proposal to close Beachy Head lighthouse and extend the range of the further out Royal Sovereign Lighthouse, comes as part of Trinity House's latest five year review.

Eastbourne MP Nigel Waterson said the proposals could put sailors in danger.

He said: “Thousands of recreational sailors still rely on the light at Beachy Head.

“This section of coast is fraught with dangers for the unwary, especially the Beachy Head shelf and strong currents in the vicinity. Fog makes it even more hazardous. It is no wonder there has been a light here since at least 1670."

Consultation on the plans is currently taking place.

Anyone wanting to comment should write to Navigation Directorate, Trinity House, Tower Hill, London, EC3N 4DH, or email navigation.directorate@thls.org by January 29.