Nude paintings on display at a Sussex cafe have sparked controversy among diners.

The Snow Cafe in Bridge Street, Newhaven, has more than 20 paintings by Rottingdean artist Sara Hill, depicting classic and contemporary nude figures on its walls.

Owners Nick Bale and his co-partner, known as Snowy, opened the exhibition on Monday and were pleased with the mix of reactions from customers.

Mr Bale said: "Sara called us and showed us the paintings she does, which tend to be nudes.

"We like reaction. Art should be about provoking reactions and there have been a lot of comments."

A set of three paintings showing a woman with a man's fingers in her mouth has been the centre of much attention.

Mr Bale said: "We haven't had anyone walk out but some people have chosen not to sit near them.

"People seem to either love them or hate them. Sara's philosophy is they are to do with strength."

Artwork will be changed every three months but Mr Bale said he was looking forward to the arrival of one of Ms Hill's most controversial pieces in December.

Last September we reported how police had asked a gallery owner to remove Ms Hill's painting, Apres Rene, from the window in case it caused offence.

The painting shows a full frontal nude self-portrait of Ms Hill on a crucifix.

Ms Hills said her art was never offensive or pornographic, just human bodies.

The cafe turns into a restaurant at night with seating for 33 customers and has been open for three months.

All the paintings are for sale.