Cases of carbon monoxide (CO) poisoning in Kent have risen by more than 40%, research has revealed.

This is far higher than the national figure of 23%, according to data from charity Project SHOUT.

Between 2016 and 2017, 40 cases of CO poisoning were recorded in the county - compared to 50 the following year.

The elderly and very young are among the most vulnerable to the gas, alongside pregnant women.

Common symptoms include dizziness, tiredness, headaches, nausea and generally feeling unwell.

Campaigner Dr James Ashcroft said: "I think the real reason behind the rise in carbon monoxide poisoning is still a bit of a mystery.

"There could be many different factors, and I think the most important point is that we’re all aware of carbon monoxide poisoning, how big an issue it is, and what we can do about it."

Carbon monoxide is produced when fuel doesn't burn properly - usually due to badly fitted or poorly maintained appliances.

Common sources of CO are gas and oil boilers, gas hobs and fires, log burners, open fires and barbecues.

An alarm is the only way to detect the gas - as you can't see, smell or taste it - but two-thirds of homes don't have one, according to campaigners.

Dr Ashcroft said: "When levels of carbon monoxide start to build up in your body and in your blood, it starts to mean that you can’t actually absorb oxygen anymore.

"This means that you can’t breathe, the tissues in the body like the brain and the heart won’t receive the oxygen that they need, and eventually that can lead to death – it’s a very, very serious problem.

"We think that about 50 people die from carbon monoxide poisoning every year, and these deaths are preventable.

"The best thing to do is to make sure your boiler is checked regularly, and make sure you have a carbon monoxide detector.

"It’s a problem which is rising, and we should all know about it, and all be aware."

For more information on carbon monoxide, and how to keep your home safe, visit kent.fire-uk.org