A naturist social club has lost the battle to keep its caravans in the face of parish council objections.

Eureka Naturist Club in Fawkham, near Sevenoaks, asked the district council to grant retrospective planning permission for eight static caravans that have been on the site since the 1970s.

But the application was refused, despite 150 members signing a petition to retain the accommodation, used by members attending night time parties at the site.

Fawkham Parish Council applied to Sevenoaks council to enact a historic enforcement notice for the caravans' removal.

Councillors argued the caravans constituted an inappropriate use of green belt, and did not qualify for special consideration as would caravans used by farm workers.

The council also claimed visitors to the 23-acre site "does not benefit the interests of local residents."

However, club director Mike Davies says it has been a benefit to the local economy as members make use of local shops, pubs and hotels.

He told KentOnline: "Wherever possible we try to pass on business to local hoteliers, who take the overspill from our accommodation.

"We're good for the local economy."

But chairman of Fawkham Parish Council Lawrence Moss said the village saw little benefit from the club, and members usually keep themselves to themselves.