During a tough day searching for a bargain on the high street, shoppers often look for a bench to take the weight off their feet.

Imagine the relief felt by people in Ashford when they found a giant red armchair waiting for them on Friday.

The oversized furniture had been placed in the High Street by Virgin Media to mark its plans to extend its fibre optic internet network to 108,000 homes and businesses across Kent.

Work has already begun to connect up to 8,000 new premises in Ashford.

Borough council leader Cllr Gerry Clarkson was among those to take a break on the giant chair, alongside Damian Green, who is fighting to win back his seat at the general election.

Mr Clarkson said: “A growing town like Ashford needs the very best modern technology and we are delighted Virgin Media have chosen our borough for such a significant digital infrastructure investment, which will mean we will have some of the best broadband access in the country.

“This will make a big difference for our residents and businesses, making it easier, faster and more efficient to connect.”

Backed by parent company Liberty Global, Virgin Media is investing £3 billion to extend its ultrafast fibre broadband network to four million premises.

Neil Bartholomew, regional director for the South East at Virgin Media, said: “We urge more people to come together and register their interest – your street could be next.”