Campaigners are disappointed after a bid to reopen the popular Beachy Head Countryside Centre failed.

Liberal Democrat councillors tabled a proposal to reopen the centre, near Eastbourne.

Tory-led Eastbourne Council closed it last month due to large losses.

Campaigners have been galvanising support to save the centre, which they say is a vital educational tool for schools and historical and archaeological societies.

The proposal, put forward by Hampden Park ward councillor Olive Woodall, called for the centre's reopening.

Coun Woodall said it would give time for organisations, groups and individuals to contribute.

However, the proposal was rejected by fellow councillors last night.

Council officials said they would remain open to offers for the centre, which has stirred up emotions.

Councillor Bert Leggett, Lib Dem for Downside ward, said: "Beachy Head in particular and the Downs in general are flagship attractions for Eastbourne, with more than a million people visiting them every year.

"All sorts of organisations, some national, have spoken about the merits of this little centre.

"In particular, there have been letters of support from language schools as far away as Germany that have used the centre over the years."

Council leader Graham Marsden said: "The council will continue to consult with groups to seek the reopening of the countryside centre.

"Those negotiations have been going on for some time and we are hopeful of a conclusion within a short period of time."