Leave our shops alone - that is the message from Tenterden town councillors.

They are determined to preserve the quality and charm of the town and avoid it being swamped by non-retail outlets.

They were giving their reaction to the Ashford borough expansion plans.

In order to retain the character of shops they want to see the heart of the commercial area extended with restrictions imposed on what type of businesses occupy premises in that area.

Banks, building societies and estate agents should be limited to a maximum of 25 per cent of the shop fronts in that part of town, they say.

The Mayor, Cllr John Weller, said: “In the past traditional shops have lost out to those able to pay higher rates for premises.

"We must limit them to continue the reputation we have for the variety of quality smaller shops.”

~For full story, see this week's Kentish Express.