THE South Downs is leading the way in our Joy of Sussex vote.

In the run up to Christmas we ran our Joy of Sussex feature in which we listed the 25 reasons why we love where we live.

After giving you time to digest the shortlist we launched our public vote on New Year's Day and called on you to pick your favourite joy.

In the days since we have been inundated with your picks, with the South Downs currently leading the way.

Piers is a close second while murmurations currently sits in third.

However, pub walks, fashion, bandstands and castles are not far behind and pretty much all of the 25 are still in contention.

Mike Gilson, editor of The Argus, said: "I have been delighted with the response we have had so far, it just goes to show how passionate people are about Sussex.

"The South Downs has stormed into an early lead. But it is still all to play for. So whether your pick is music, seagulls, castles or eccentrics, get voting and have your say."

You have until January 16 to vote for your favourite. Visit theargus.co.uk/joyofsussex25.

Here is a reminder of what you are voting for:

1. PEBBLES

2. MURMURATIONS

3. ECCENTRICS

4. SOUTH DOWNS

5. SEA

6. PIERS

7. BEACH HUTS

8. SEAGULLS

9. CASTLES

10. BONFIRE

11. QUIRKY TRADITIONS

12. PRODUCE

13. RETAIL

14. FASHION

15. FOOTBALL CLUBS

16. OPINIONS

17. PUB WALKS

18. ARTISTS

19. MUSIC

20. BANDSTANDS

21. RAILWAY JOURNEYS

22. CRICKET

23. TRIBES

24. FESTIVALS

25. ARCHITECTURE