A conservationist has been made an MBE for almost two decades of working to protect the Sullington and Storrington area.

Don Filiston, who has been chairman of Sandgate Conservation Society for 17 years, has helped steer the organisation into one of the largest community-based societies in the England, boasting 1,800 members.

Talking about the award, he said: "This honour is for the society, not just for me, and it encourages us all to press forward with the conservation of the beautiful area we live in."

A major part of Mr Filiston's work has been focused on setting up a Sandgate Country Park.

Situated to the east of Storrington, north of Worthing, the proposed park is intended to protect and conserve woodlands and heathlands that have steadily disappeared in other parts of the county.

Father-of-two Mr Filiston, who moved to Sandgate 21 years ago, said: "We must protect our wonderful open spaces and leave them as a living heritage for our children."

Mr Filiston and the society are opposing West Sussex County Council's plans to use part of the proposed park for waste disposal.

He said: "We understand the need for this type of facility but we just don't believe this is the right place.

"We are not conservationists against progress but there are existing waste facilities nearby that are better placed, leaving us clear to progress with the formation of the country park."

Talking about the strong membership of the society, Mr Filiston said: "We are fortunate our conservation message strikes a chord with the people who live in local villages and, with their support, we have managed to prevent overdevelopment."

The society was formed in 1974, with the main aim of preventing housing development in Sandgate Park and surrounding areas.

The society holds regular field days, talks and visits, when members can learn about all aspects of conservation at first hand.