Campaigners have launched a petition to save a treasured area of ancient woodland.

Leybourne Woods, which cover 21 acres between Birling Road and the A228 Leybourne and West Malling bypass, has been put up for sale for £150,000, prompting calls for parish council to buy the land and guarantee its protection.

Launched by Leybourne residents Bill Banks and Paul Boxall, the petition has been signed by more than 1,400 people at the time of writing.

It states: "We the undersigned believe that the ancient woods and bluebell meadows of Leybourne Woods should be purchased by Leybourne Parish Council, either alone or in partnership with Tonbridge and Malling Borough Council for the enjoyment of local people as a public open space.

Speaking to KentOnline, Mr Boxall said: "The fantastic number of petition signatures and comments showed us just how important these woods are to people of all ages.

"One person told us he has been walking there for 51 years and hopes to do so for the rest of his life.

He added: "Bill and I think that when land is this important to local people, they should own it for all time. That means the parish and or the borough council need to act swiftly on the sale.

"This petition should give them the confidence that local people support spending of local tax payers money on this increasingly rare piece of ancient woodland and bluebell meadows."

To sign the petition, click here.

Advertised on Rightmove website, and offered for sale through agents BTF Partnership, the land is described as "contained within a single parcel with the majority designated as ancient semi-natural woodland."

The site adds: "The land comprises primarily chestnut coppice with other broadleaf species including Ash, Hornbeam and Oak standards.

"There is a well-defined ride network allowing good access throughout the woodland either for amenity use or timber extraction. The land extends to approximately 21.31 acres."

Leybourne resident and former parish councillor Kevin Wagstaff is among those backing the petition.

He added: "As a resident of Leybourne and former Parish Councillor I was proud that the council tried to do all within its powers to protect and preserve the green spaces in and around Leybourne for the benefit of the community.

"We successfully purchased the area of land known as Castle Lake from Whitbreads and have made significant improvements to enhance that area for the enjoyment of current and future generations.

"When I saw that Leybourne Woods was up for sale I immediately signed the petition asking for Leybourne Parish Council to consider putting in a bid. I know how tight parish finances are but I believe that the council has to act swiftly and do all within its powers to try and buy this land for the community.

"It really is beautiful when the bluebells are in full bloom and I know how much residents of all ages enjoy walking around these magnificent ancient woods. It would be a real travesty if the community lost the access that we have enjoyed for decades: taking ownership is the best way to maintain this access in perpetuity."

A statement from Tonbridge and Malling Council said: "The council is aware of the sale of the land and the launch of a petition. Before any further consideration is given, the council will be liaising with Leybourne Parish Council.

Leybourne Parish Council has been approached for comment.