The new Mayor of Lewes was carried through the streets like the Queen of Sheba as she took part in a campaign to cut car use.

Barbara Riddihough is backing the Don't Choke Britain campaign to encourage people to leave their vehicles at home.

Councillor Riddihough was one of 98 mayors across the country taking part in Mayors on the Move by finding an alternative method of getting to work.

She was carried through the streets of Lewes on a litter to the amusement of passers-by.

Coun Riddihough said: "I was going to use a sedan chair but we got a litter instead. It was enormous fun and was infinitely better than getting there by engine.

"The taxi drivers were killing themselves laughing. This is a very relevant campaign for Lewes as we are badly choked with traffic."

In Worthing, Mayor Eric Mardell and his wife Liz carried out their engagements on foot.

Coun Mardell said: "We wanted to show people it is worth making the effort to walk and leave the car at home now and again."

A spokesman for the Don't Choke Britain campaign said: "It is hoped the campaign will get across the message that leaving the car at home occasionally and trying other transport means can make a difference."

In Burgess Hill, official town crier Neil Batsford joined 120 colleagues across the country to broadcast the message "Don't choke Britain - let it breathe".