Public toilets have been trashed - leaving a council no option but to close them four hours early each day to prevent further damage.

Vandals struck the public conveniences in Folkestone and on Romney Marsh over the last few weeks.

Folkestone and Hythe District Council shared images of the shocking damage in a post on social media.

Panels have been torn off the walls, while toilets have been broken and filled with toilet paper.

Bottles have also been smashed on the floor, leaving dangerous shards of broken glass all over the tiles.

A council spokesman described the "needless" act as "mindless, anti-social behaviour".

"Why… just, why?" he asked.

"We’re not talking about some unfunny quips scribbled on a cubicle door.
"This is mindless anti-social behaviour that has caused extensive damage."

After clearing up and repairing some of the damage, the toilets on Somerset Road, Cheriton and Church Road, New Romney, have been reopened – but with a catch.

"While most definitely not looking like they should, we have managed to reopen the toilets, but both facilities will be closing daily at 6pm on a temporary basis to prevent further vandalism," the spokesman said.

"We’re sorry for any issues this may cause.

The facilities are usually kept open until 10pm.

"If anyone has any information about the individuals responsible then please report it to Kent Police by visiting www.kent.police.uk or calling 101."