Protesters have threatened to block the entrance to Newhaven harbour to stop a waste-burning incinerator being built there.

More than 150 people have signed a petition saying they will close the port unless councils back down and drop plans for a burner at North Quay.

The petition, sent to East Sussex County Council leader Peter Jones, says protesters will close the entrance to the harbour for as long as it takes to defeat the plan.

The county council, together with Brighton and Hove City Council, wants to build a burner at Newhaven to handle much of the county's refuse.

The petition was organised by Keith Stevens, 73, of Iveagh Crescent, South Heighton, who said it was the first time in his life he had been angry enough to start a protest.

He said: "There is not one person in Newhaven or Seaford who wants this incinerator.

"We will block the port for as long as it takes and I am sure there are enough people here to do it. It will be peaceful and I think it is our ace card."

The burner is part of a multi-million pound waste plan being drawn up by the two councils, which is nearing its final stages.

A preferred bidder for a £1 billion private finance initiative deal was selected last month and the contract is expected to be signed before the end of the year. A public inquiry to finalise the plans is due to start early next year.

Newhaven councillor David Rogers said: "I understand the anger that lies behind this but I would not encourage anybody to take illegal action.

"There is still a long way to go before the waste plan is adopted or there is a planning application for the incinerator."

Coun Jones said the council would continue following the normal planning process and intended to help people in the town visit other incinerators and communities living near them to help allay any fears.

He said: "We are going to play this by the book. We have played things absolutely by the book in terms of putting together the waste local plan.

"The objections that have been raised will now go to a Government inspector at a public inquiry and it will be his job to decide whether it goes ahead or not."