SPORTING T-shirts in support of national parks, hardy hikers took to the South Downs for a walk in protest at Government cuts.

It was part of a national demonstration organised by the Campaign for National Parks and pressure group 38 Degrees.

The 5km walk from the Queen Elizabeth Country Park to the top of Butser Hill was set by the South Downs Society.

National park authorities have had their budgets cut by up to 40 per cent over the past five years, presenting tough financial challenges.