Thousands of people in Worthing are being affected by noisy new train horns.

A senior borough councillor has called for a solution to be found without compromising railway safety.

Peter Green, executive member for environmental services, said: "I agree safety is paramount but I believe there must be ways of reducing the disturbance caused to many thousands of people living near railway lines without compromising safety on our railways."

The council recently sent an environmental health officer to lobby the Rail Safety and Standards Board following complaints from residents affected at all hours by loud blasts.

The board told officials from a number of local authorities that it was committed to finding a solution to the problem that balanced the safety benefits of warning horns with the concerns of lineside neighbours.

Coun Green said: "I am pleased the board is taking the issue of noise disturbance seriously. Together with other local authorities, Worthing Borough Council has asked to be kept informed of the board's progress and will continue to press for an early resolution to the complaints of noise pollution."