Security is being beefed up at almshouses after elderly residents raised fears about late-night anti-social behaviour.

Trustees of the historic properties in South Road, Faversham , have now hired a security guard in a bid to provide reassurance to their 85 tenants.

The guard will patrol the grounds throughout the night and into the early hours which is when the intrusion and noise and disturbance is said to occur.

In a letter from the trustees of the Faversham Municipal Charities, which owns the almshouses, clerk Caroline Flanningan says: “Please be aware that there will be a security guard from TMS Protection patrolling the grounds of the almshouses over the next week.

“We’ve asked them to do this as there’s been a few anti-social incidents in recent weeks and we hope this will help deter those involved.

“Residents were urged to contact the charity if they see anything suspicious.”

She told KentOnline: “It is sad that we have to do this but people who should not be on the premises have been coming into our private grounds late at night.

"Bringing in a security guard is the last thing we wanted to do, but we hope it will give residents some reassurance..."

“We also had a incident of damage when a light by our gates was broken.

"Bringing in a security guard is the last thing we wanted to do, but we hope it will give residents some reassurance.

“We have also reported the incidents to police who have said they will step up their patrols and look out for us.”

A police spokesman said officers had received reports of shingle being taken from outside properties in South Road on September 14 and October 4.

A further report of criminal damage to a nearby church window was received on October 5.

Officers regularly patrol the area and on October 4 they seized two abandoned bikes, which are believed to have been used by two people who had earlier been seen removing stones. Inquiries to identify any suspects are ongoing.

Residents affected by anti-social behaviour are encouraged to report all incidents to Kent Police so officers can gain an accurate picture on the issue and determine a proportionate course of action.

Read more: All the latest news from Faversham