Lewes councillors said they had suffered sleepless nights over their decision to challenge Falmer stadium.

Brighton and Hove Albion supporters listened to Lewes District Council at a Cabinet meeting yesterday.

Councillors faced a barrage of complaints from supporters who begged them to reconsider their legal bid to block Albion's proposed new stadium.

The club's financial experts warn that defending the challenge in the High Court could cost the council almost three times more than it has budgeted.

But Neil Commin, Lewes's lead councillor for planning, said he staked his job on the legal costs not topping £65,000.

He said: "I have no reason to doubt the decision we've taken. My personal position in that sense is easy because I'm clear on where I stand on this, and I mean this sincerely."

But Seagulls fans warned councillors they were taking an "almighty gamble".

Coun Norman Turner said councillors had "spent many hours of sleeplessness but believe and trust we are doing the best, in the long term for the residents of Lewes".

Catherine Knight, the council's solicitor, said it was standard practice to name both Albion and Brighton and Hove City Council as defendants in their High Court case.

Responding to suggestions this could leave the council open to paying extra costs, she said it was "very remote" that the club's claim would be granted.

Other councillors insisted they had nothing against the Albion, they were concerned John Prescott had overlooked several key points.

These included the effect on the South Downs national park. The council argued planning permission should not be givewn until the park boundaries have been confirmed.

Former leader of Brighton Council, Steve Bassam scoffed at the claim. He said Lewes councillors had been lobbying the Countryside Agency to place the borders though the middle of the proposed pitch.

Albion fan Lord Bassam said: "This is a cunning ploy for Lewes District Council and they're now seeking to benefit from that lobbying.

"The principle of the national park has long been established. The boundaries have also been consulted on and it will be some time before that consultation report is issued - probably next autumn.

"Mr Prescott took the view it would be unfair for residents and the football club to wait.

"But it was Brighton Council that began a local campaign for the National Park which wasn't supported by the bordering councils, including Lewes. Yet they are now using it in their argument, ironic, isn't it?"

The council also said it believes Mr Prescott is misstaken in saying the stadium is a matter of national interest.

However, speaking afterwards, Lord Bassam said the regeneration of sporting facilities is part of the Government's national policy.

He said: "I think Lewes District Council is fundamentally misunderstanding the situation and misleading the public. It's extremely unlikely their challenge will lead to a different outcome."

The hearing is expected to take place in the summer.