The unknown obelisk sparking village debate

Mystery surrounds an obelisk in an East Sussex village car park - few know its true origins, but many have their guesses.

From a shot tower to a kiln, and even a lock up for anyone behaving badly on a night out, there are plenty of theories around the purpose of the small flint structure in a car park near The Tye in Alfriston.

Despite its origins being a matter of debate, local historian Kevin Gordon has revealed the truth of the 150-year-old structure.

He told Secret Sussex: "One of my crazier theories was that it was a Victorian coal powered rocket which didn't take off."

He added: "Old maps show there was a windmill in this area, but that was a few hundred metres south of here.

"On one map, in 1871, it shows a dovecote here, and that's what the original building was."

Despite the mystery of its origins being revealed by the maps, the building's history still has some twists.

By the 20th Century, the building had fallen into disrepair and become "just a wreck", Gordon said.

At that point, the owner of a nearby house saw an opportunity, and for some years the dovecote was rebuilt into a playhouse for their children to enjoy, he added.

The structure remains in stable condition, though it shows signs of age and weathering.

Although it holds local significance, and is a site of much debate, East Sussex County Council has previously confirmed that it is not listed, and therefore not subject to specific heritage protections.

Any future changes to the car park or surrounding land would likely prompt renewed debate about whether the obelisk should be preserved, restored or formally documented.

Heritage groups say that small, enigmatic structures like the Alfriston obelisk often reveal unexpected insights into local social history, even when their original purpose cannot be fully established.

Follow BBC Sussex on Facebook, X, and on Instagram and listen to BBC Radio Sussex on Sounds. Send your story ideas to southeasttoday@bbc.co.uk or WhatsApp us on 08081 002250.