A MAN has been caught conducting “unauthorised archaeological activities” in a public park.

East Sussex County Council contacted Sussex Police after a number of trenches were dug in Combe Valley Countryside Park in Bexhill.

The council provided the details for the person involved and the authority's chief archaeologist confirmed that no digs had been discussed or given the go-ahead.

Police Constable King issued a Community Protection Warning (CPW) after the man orchestrated unauthorised archaeological activities.

“The trenches were not filled in and as a result could have presented a hazard to people enjoying the park,” a Sussex Police spokesman said.

“The conditions of the CPW, while not curbing the activities of carrying out historical research, stipulated that prior written approval from the landowner would be required, to be presented by anyone involved in carrying out work.

“Combe Valley Countryside Park benefits from the valued support of the Friends of Combe Valley - a small hard-working unit of volunteers who help maintain the area and make it a safe, pleasurable place to visit.”

More information about the park can be found on the Friends of Combe Valley website.