An 'illegal' shelter built by a homeless man has today been torn down.

The small structure and accompanying garden was built at Marine Walk in Folkestone this month to house a homeless man and his dog.

But last week a notice was issued by Folkestone and Hythe District Council telling the man he was to vacate the cabin and remove his belongings.

And today council officers demolished the structure.

Workmen removed the wooden panels and tarpaulin roof, before removing the make-shift garden.

Now all that remains of the 'home' is three piles of shingle that once featured in the garden.

The occupier's belongings were taken by the council and will be put into storage until he collects them.

Police were present at the destruction of the shelter, following reports 'a man was being aggressive'.

It is not known what will happen to the homeless man, or his dog, now his temporary home has been removed.

A spokesman for Folkestone and Hythe District Council said: "The Council has today removed the structure that was illegally built on the beach promenade.

"We gave the occupier notice that this would happen and gave him the opportunity to remove it himself, but as he did not we had to act.

"The Council has an obligation to look after all of its landholdings and cannot make exceptions.

"We have a legal obligation to ensure that all public rights of way and open spaces are safe for residents and visitors to enjoy, and that homes are fit for habitation with running water and toilet facilities.

"We will store the occupier’s possessions ready for him to pick up, and will continue to work with our partners including Porchlight, the Rainbow Centre and Sanctuary Housing to find him suitable alternative accommodation.”

A spokesman for Kent Police said: "Police were called to Marine Parade, Folkestone following a report that a man was being aggressive." The spokesman confirmed no arrests were made.

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