Swale council has apologised after an error processing the energy rebate led to money being taken from people's accounts.

Paid through the council tax system, the rebate is meant to provide £150 to households in bands A–D.

But Swale Borough Council said an error meant those eligible would see both a debit and a credit on their bank account today.

A statement on social media added: "We are deeply sorry that this has happened, and we have been working to rectify the situation and make sure people's accounts are in a neutral position.

"If you are worried, please check with your bank to confirm both a debit and credit has been made to your account.

"The planned £150 rebate is being reprocessed today and should be in people’s accounts in the next few days."

The post sparked a flood of criticism on Facebook, with some reporting they had only seen a payment taken from their account.

One said: "Only debit taken out and we’ve paid direct debit for years and in correct band for rebate. It’s a mess Swale Borough Council."

Another added: "How on earth SBC have messed this up is beyond belief. Do they not have competent programming staff/management/project management? Absolute disaster once again. I'm sure that once again the residents will receive a trite apology and the classic phrase 'we will look at lessons to be learned' - which basically means they will do naff all.

But there was some sympathy for the council's situation and efforts to make amends.

One commented: "Poor Swale council. The government drop these things on local authorities with scant warning and expect them to pick up the pieces with little or no extra resource.

"Genuine mistakes deserve understanding. I hope you get it sorted soon."