An MP has requested a meeting with the boss of a train company to discuss its rush-hour ban on bikes.

Norman Baker, Liberal Democrat MP for Lewes, has written to Southern chief executive Charles Horton asking for an opportunity to raise the concerns of his constituents.

Passengers travelling towards either London or Brighton on trains due to arrive between 7am and 10am and those leaving the two stations between 4pm and 7pm have been prevented from taking their bikes on the trains.

Bikes are allowed on trains at all other times and folded bicycles are welcome on all services.

Mr Baker said: "I have received complaints from constituents concerning this and although I understand the rationale behind the decision, I entirely sympathise with my constituents who want to be green and will be frustrated from being so.

"I have requested the meeting to discuss whether there are perhaps other ways forward, say by issuing licences to allow a certain number of bicycles on the trains or even introducing a minimal charge for taking a bike on the train. This would ensure those who have been making the journey for years are not put at a disadvantage."

A Southern spokesman said:

"It is not a new ban. We are simply enforcing a policy which has been in place for many years but was lightly enforced in the past. The new trains offer a limited amount of space for bicycles during the peak periods."

He said the company would be happy to meet Mr Baker to discuss his concerns.