Monty Crabb, aged four, was enjoying a recent seaside trip to the town with his brother, Freddie, three, and grandmother Diana Crabb, when he was injured.

He was left with a cauliflower ear and burns when the canopy of the kitesurf board crashed into him.

Since the incident Mrs Burns has called for areas of the beach to be zoned off and warning notices to be put up to prevent a similar incident happening again.

Mrs Burns, who said the girl with the kite was 'mortified' and came over with her instructor after the incident and said they had been asking for a restricted area on the beach.

Councillor Chris Conil said people needed to use common sense and added, "I think that anyone taking part in sports along there would have to have a certain area designated for that and I would be in favour of having that.

"I think anyone who is taking part in an activity that could be called adventurous or dangerous should be monitored with the coastguard, lifeguards and responders who are on call.

"I think it's a good idea because everyone will know what areas they can walk or swim in and pass on information to others.

"I think visitors should also be provided with maps so people know where they are and can get right down to the beach without incurring a fall.

Newhaven lifeboat coxswain Ian Johns added, "We have been out before to kitesurfers who have got into trouble, but never to anyone injured by one. But it is a very fast sport and anyone taking part should keep a sharp look out for any members of public in that area, that's just common sense."

A spokesman for Lewes District Council said all beach users were expected to act responsibly and added, "There are no by-laws in relation to the beach area.

"There are by-laws which can be enforced in relation to craft in the sea and the speed at which they travel.

"We also have bathing by-laws which cover people in the water and how they behave."