“Guardian of South Downs” gets a makeover
June 11, 2024
“The Guardian of the South Downs” has been given a fresh lick of paint and is looking more impressive than ever.
Last month volunteers re-painted of The Long Man of Wilmington at the eastern tip of the National Park.
It followed the “Adopt a Piece of History” campaign, run by Sussex Past, to ensure the care and guardianship of heritage and landscape.
The re-painting was the finale of a fundraising campaign launched in December 2022 to support the work of the Sussex Archaeology Society, which owns and cares for the iconic hill figure.
The campaign has raised more than £10K to date and enabled donors to pay £30 to adopt one of the 770 blocks that make up the outline of The Long Man.
Many of those who donated have had the chance to take part in the re-painting, including Brewers Painting and Decorating, which donated the paint, Polegate Community Centre, staff from a local residential home and others.
The Long Man dates back to the 16th Century and is Europe’s largest portrayal of the human form. The mysterious monument has baffled archaeologists and historians for hundreds of years. Fertility symbol? Ancient Warrior? Male or Female? We may never know!
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.”
Sussex Past is the trading arm of Sussex Archaeological Society and was founded in 1846.
In the National Park, it also cares for Lewes Castle and Museum and Anne of Cleves House Museum & Gardens.