A local MP claims three-quarters of local residents support the growth of Kent International Airport.

Dr Stephen Ladyman, the Labour MP for South Thanet, asked more than 1,500 people for their views on the Manston site's ambitious expansion plans.

The survey revealed many of those living closest to the runway or underneath the flight path, in areas such as Nethercourt, Southwood and central Ramsgate, also backed the airport's development.

However, more than 350 people who replied to the questionnaire also said they were worried about aircraft noise and night flying - the subject of ongoing discussions between Thanet council and airport owners Infratil.

Dr Ladyman, 57, who has held the South Thanet seat since 1997, said: "Many people currently back the airport but their support could easily shift if night flying increases or noise becomes more intrusive.

"If the council allows too much flexibility and fails to protect the quality of local life, then support for the airport could quickly turn into opposition."

The results of the survey were revealed just days after Matt Clarke, the chief executive of Kent International Airport, said he was stepping down from his post after three years.

He is to return home to New Zealand to spend more time with his family.