A giant hill figure which is said to protect the South Downs has been repainted by volunteers. The Long Man of Wilmington, a chalk outline of a man cut into the South Downs near Wilmington, has been the centre of an 18-month restoration campaign. Sussex Past, the trading arm of the Sussex Archaeological Society, launched the ‘Adopt a Piece of History’ programme to ensure the care of heritage in the county and has raised more than £10,000.
The Long Man of Wilmington chalk outline (Image: Sussex Past) It has allowed almost 100 donors to adopt one of the 770 blocks that make up The Long Man to facilitate the painting of ‘The Guardian of the South Downs’. Last Thursday, volunteers gathered to rejuvenate the blocks that make up the outline with paint donated by Brewers Painting and Decorating. Volunteers restore the 'Guardian of the South Downs' (Image: Sussex Past) Greg Talbot, general manager of Sussex Past, said: “This is such an important day for us and demonstrates the enormous community spirit here in Sussex.
"The love and care for such a precious part of our heritage will ensure that it is enjoyed for generations to come.” The Long Man is shrouded in mystery, as some believe it is a prehistoric creation, whilst others say it appeared between the 11th and 15th centuries. Its curator is unknown.
It is known to have existed for at least 200 years and may be much older than that. It could have had religious significance and may have been connected with the priory a.
