A conservation group is fighting a decision to route a public footpath away from the Sussex home of Rolling Stone Keith Richards.

West Sussex county councillors agreed to the move after guitarist Richards complained ramblers could see into the grounds of his Redlands retreat at West Wittering.

The council defied their officers' recommendation in agreeing to move the path, saying the star needed protection from "nutters and paparazzi".

But now the Open Spaces Society has pledged to fight the move, arguing the proposed new route is inferior and that it would be hard for anyone to reach the grounds of Redlands, which is surrounded by a moat.

Kate Ashbrook, general secretary of the Open Spaces Society, said: "There is no reason why anyone should try to break into the house from the footpath, especially as they would have to get across the moat.

"The existing route is very pleasant with wide views. The proposed alternative, round the other side of the field, is greatly inferior.

"Mr Richards has owned Redlands for 36 years. We see no reason to move the path now.

"We shall fight the plan, at a public inquiry if necessary, to defend people's rights to continue enjoying this path."

Richards, 60, bought the thatched mansion in 1966. It was famously the scene of a police drugs raid a year later, when he and singer Mick Jagger were arrested.

Jagger was given a jail sentence for a drugs offence but it was lifted on appeal. Richards was cleared of allowing the house to be used for the smoking of cannabis.

A band source said Richards spent most of his time in Connecticut, USA, and only visited Redlands when he "wants some quiet".

He said Richards was well liked within the community. Three years ago he wrote a cheque for £20,000 to repair the village hall's roof when asked for a donation.