As MPs sat in Parliament debating whether to launch air strikes in Syria, residents in Folkestone spotted several Chinook helicopters flying over the town.

It immediately led to speculation that Gurkhas from the town were preparing for action.

But the Army today confirmed the activity was purely a training exercise.

The government proposal to launch bombing raids on Islamic State targets in Syria was carried in the House of Commons just after 10pm.

Earlier in the day reports emerged that RAF jets were being prepared to launch raids that night.

The first were carried out in the early hours of this morning.

But the government stated from the outset of the air strike debate that no British troops would be landing on the ground as a result of last night's decision.

The 2nd Battalion Royal Gurkha Rifles are based at the Sir John Moore Barracks in Shorncliffe.

They are due to be deployed in Afghanistan next year.

An Army spokesman said the activity yesterday was part of "routine training" and not anything to do with deployment.

How did Kent MPs vote last night? Read reaction from across the county here.