Parking machines in West Malling have been vandalised just two days after controversial charges were introduced.

Plans to charge drivers at the High Street plot behind Tesco Metro were met with staunch opposition by locals and business owners but were approved by Tonbridge and Malling Borough Council in March.

Previously motorists had been able to stay for three hours without paying but under new rules drivers can park for a maximum of three hours between 8am and 5.30pm, Monday to Saturday, with a maximum charge of £1.80.

The charges came into force on Tuesday but by this morning someone had super glued the coin slots on both machines.

Cllr Richard Selkirk, chairman of West Malling Parish Council's planning committee who has been outspoken in his criticism of the charges, said: "Although we don't agree with charges we absolutely do not condone vandalism. It is not helping anyone and is costing the tax payers. It also causes confusion among motorist who won't be able to pay.

"The police have been informed and will be reviewing CCTV although I'm not sure it works particularly well at night."