Love it or hate it, Thanet has a strong place in many people's hearts.

When asked to comment on the district beset by both depravation and cultural opportunity, Kent Online readers spoke out in volumes about their affection for the collection of coastal towns, and their dismay at how much the once-thriving tourist spot has declined in recent years.

Meanwhile, the council meets tonight to discuss the possibility of using its legal might to force through repairs to the fire-hit scenic railway.

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Eighteen-year-old Tim Bowerman will be leaving Broadstairs as soon as possible, but not without some regrets. "It's getting ridiculous; I plan on moving…In all honesty, Thanet has lost its charm from my view."

Local man Michael Hodder said: "I think we are very lucky to live in this part of the world. Of course we have our share of 'not so nice' but Thanet is a lot better area than some places."

Thanet resident Julie Cannon added: "I have lived in Thanet all my life and I think that the way it has been allowed to decline is a travesty. Thanet Council should be ashamed for the major part they have had to play in that decline."

Susanne Hansford, from Sandwich, spoke volumes when she wrote: "I am grateful that I only have to travel to Thanet to work five days a week."

Occasional visitor Andrew Collyer from Rainham sided with Bob Geldof's recent description of the town as 'ugly': "The beach is excellent, if a bit dirty like most in the UK, but particularly out of season the town looks neglected."

Claire Phillips from Rochester has holidayed in Broadstairs every year of her life and said: "Broadstairs is lovely compared with Margate - I was embarrassed to take a friend there last year and we ended up leaving just as soon as we had arrived."

But perhaps Ramsgate's Philip Walker added the most thought-provoking comments: "I have known several people who have said that they can't wait to get out of Thanet, all of them ended up returning because they missed the area."

Read more comments by clicking on the Speak Out link below.