Thousands of drivers every day pass this little toll house by the A27 Lewes to Eastbourne Road at Firle.

It was built in 1819 as one of a series between the two towns and is pictured in a new book by historian Peter Longstaff-Tyrrell.

He has written a history of the Old Coach Road which hugs the South Downs. Part of it has been restored as a track for cyclists and pedestrians by East Sussex County Council.

The track is essentially an old turnpike road and tolls were levied on travellers at several points in its heyday.

Turnpike Territory by Peter Longstaff- Tyrrell is available for £3.50 including postage from Gatehouse, PO Box 169, Polegate BN26 6AA. For more details, contact peter.longstafftyrrell@tesco.net.