An increasing number of "homeless" people are pitching tents across a town centre.

Venues chosen by the rough sleepers include the castle moat and the car park opposite the Casino Rooms in Rochester.

A gate is to be installed behind the Eagle Tavern in the High Street to prevent overnight anti-social behaviour reported by residents near the original Roman wall.

The situation has angered ward councillor Stuart Tranter, who says accommodation for people in need is available.

He is also incensed the council has to go to court to move the temporary residents on, despite in some cases them staying on land owned by the authority.

But Neil Charlick, of the charity Gillingham Street Angels, which gives away tents to those without a roof over their heads, disagrees.

He said: "There is not enough places for people to stay and the number of people on the streets across the Towns is growing, particularly in Rochester.

"It's no secret Rochester is popular with beggars because there is a night-time economy where people have a drink and tend to be generous with their money. We also run a soup kitchen there on a Monday night."

However, Cllr Tranter firmly believes the root of the problem lies with innocent passers-by giving out money.

He said: "The biggest single issue is the well-meaning person who gives money, believing whatever story they have just been told.

"Their money will not help. It will not buy a train ticket or cup of tea or food or pay for accommodation.

"It will encourage a lifestyle which could end their life."

Cllr Tranter stressed it was important every case was dealt with individually and that safety, advice and support was paramount.

He said: "The court makes us powerless to remove tents immediately as we can't as a council make a person homeless - and it can be two to three weeks to get one. We are offering these people support and in the end some just do as they please."

Mr Charlick added: "It is not always just a case of putting these people up in a flat as some have mental health and addiction issues.

"There are always people coming out of prison or are victims of domestic violence.

"As as soon as you sort one person our another comes along."

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