A CAMPAIGN to allow dogs to continue running free on a beauty spot has been launched by Winchester busker Frank Williams.

Mr Williams says he is "barking mad" that Hampshire Wildlife Trust wants to end decades of tradition by limiting the freedom of dog walkers on St Catherine's Hill, Winchester.

From October 15, the trust, which manages the hill, wants owners to keep their animals on leads.

The trust is allowing sheep to graze freely on the nature reserve to help maintain the rare chalk grassland site of special scientific interest.

In the past the sheep have been penned behind electric fences.

Mr Williams, who lives near the reserve and exercises two dogs there, said: "For once I'm in favour of the status quo. I don't see why things have to change."

A protest meeting has been arranged for tomorrow at noon, meeting at the Garnier Road car park.

The trust is staging the launch event at 11am on October 15 at which information about sheep grazing will be distributed.