The company behind a Christmas attraction that had its planning permission refused by the council has said customers will be 'promptly refunded'.

Father Christmas World, which was due to open in the Salomons Estate in Tunbridge Wells, had its planning application refused on Tuesday - despite having already sold tickets.

Following the council's decision, customers flocked to the attraction's website in a bid to have their ticket money refunded.

Many encountered difficulties and were kept on hold by an automated call line for up to 45 minutes.

Markerstudy Leisure, the company behind Father Christmas World, has said automated refunds have been organised.

Tina Iacurci, a mum-of-two from Ealing had purchased four tickets at £65 each and was keen to get her money back.

She said: "I tried calling the number on the website four times, and each time I was kept on hold for around 35-40 minutes. I work and have things to do so I can't sit around all day waiting for someone to pick up the phone.

"When I sent an e-mail to the company, I received a response that merely said 'E-mails are being processed' so that didn't help me much.

"I was getting worried because part of me was concerned that if I didn't get the money as soon as possible there would be no money left to refund.

"After sending another e-mail I received a generic reply last night [Wednesday] saying that the money would be refunded soon."

Markerstudy Leisure, the company behind the attraction, has today announced that automatic refunds have been made to all who purchased tickets.

A spokesperson added: "Automatic refunds have been made to customers, the process was organised quickly yesterday and was swiftly put in place. Customers can expect to see the money return to their account in the next five to 14 days.

"All customers have been promptly refunded and a message is now on the website stating this."