Visitors to a popular country park will sadly soon see some trees felled.

The 52-acre Manor Park in West Malling was purchased by KCC in 1973, but once formed part of the parklands of the nearby 18th century Douces Manor House.

The park, which includes a lake, picnic area, cafe and a children’s play area, has been hit by ash dieback.

An examination by arboriculturists has identified 10 trees that are dead and need to be brought to the ground for safety reasons.

Another tree needs a large bough to be removed.

Seven of the trees are ash, but a hawthorn, alder, elm and willow are also dead and must come down.

Three of the trees are close to St Leonard’s Street. Two are close to Lavenders Road. The others are dotted along the east bank of the lake.

The work is expected to cost in the region of £5,000.

Douce's Manor was built in 1783 by Thomas Douce. His family lived there till 1803, when they sold to the Savage family.

From 1916, the building has had a varied history – as a recuperation centre for the wounded from the First World War; as a convalescent home for "gentle ladies of modest means,” as an RAF base during the Second World War, as a hotel and restaurant, and finally as a conference centre owned by Commercial Union insurance.

Entry to the park is free, and there are well-surfaced routes for the disabled or parents with pushchairs.