A funfair is set to go ahead with a cut-price promotion, despite fears it would increase crime.

Police had raised concerns the Memorial Park Funfair’s £1-a-ride discount could spark underage drinking, rowdiness and shoplifting.

Organiser Forrest Amusements decided not to make the promotion - which takes place on Wednesdays - available last week in the wake of the objections.

But, following discussions with Canterbury City Council, it decided to go ahead with it today.

Police Inspector Vicki Tyler said: “Through the Canterbury Community Safety Partnership, Kent Police will offer advice and guidance on public safety measures to the council and the organisers to ensure an event remains safe for everyone.

“Officers put forward concerns regarding the £1 per ride promotion, which has previously attracted large numbers of people to the area and seen increases in reports of anti-social behaviour in the evenings.

“During previous funfairs in Whitstable and Herne Bay where the £1 promotion has taken place, Kent Police has seen an increase in underage drinking, people under the influence of alcohol and shoplifting in the immediate vicinity.

“We want people to be able to enjoy Herne Bay and the events it hosts, but to do so in a responsible way.”

The event, which is open between 2.30pm and 9pm, does not allow alcoholic drinks inside.

City council spokesman Rob Davies said a compromise was struck with Forrest Amusements to only make the offer available until 6pm this afternoon.

“The aim of this offer has always been to benefit families,” he said. “The £1-a-ride offer at the Memorial Park funfair was not available on Wednesday, August 8, due to Kent Police concerns about the possibility of increased anti-social behaviour near to, but not within, the funfair, particularly in the evening.

“We have been speaking to Forrest Funfairs about this, as we were concerned about the impact this would have on the ability of local families to enjoy the funfair.”

Maria Forrest, the owner of Forrest Amusements, added: “It’s been dealt with very swiftly. The public has got the £1 offer until 6pm, so as far as I’m concerned everything has been resolved.”

The event, which regularly visits the town, features a number of funfair staples, including dodgems, a ferris wheel and Waltzer. It is open to people of all ages and will run until Saturday.