Security guards have been called in at Wakehurst Place to stop visitors straying on to neighbouring farmland.

Kew Gardens' country estate near Ardingly has admitted employing the guards to keep visitors away from deer herds.

A spokesman said the move was a precaution because parts of its 600-acre botanic garden remained cordoned off this weekend.

The ornamental gardens at Wakehurst reopened on Thursday and staff have reported a brisk trade as thousands flock to admire the spring blooms.

The gardens had to close last month when some visitors breached fencing and took children to stroke the deer - something bosses are determined will not be repeated.

The spokesman said the attraction had to protect the interests of its neighbours as the foot-and-mouth crisis continued.