The organisers of a public New Year's Eve celebration in Tunbridge Wells are hoping it will be Kent's biggest event.

Hug-Many is a family friendly celebration being held on the town's historic Pantiles that will include live musical entertainment, a piper to pipe in the New Year and fireworks at midnight.

All the proceeds will go to the Hospice in the Weald and the Pickering Cancer Drop In Centre in Tunbridge Wells.

Hug-Many is the brain child of Ian Andrew, who lives off Broadwater Down, he said: "The idea behind it is very simple. For many people with life-threatening illnesses, a hug can make all the difference, so we want the people of Tunbridge Wells to come together for a fantastic New Year’s Eve celebration and share as many hugs as possible as 2015 arrives.

"In the process, we aim to raise £10,000 for these fantastic charities that do so much for people in and around Tunbridge Wells."

It is hoped the inaugural Hug-Many will be the biggest New Year's Eve celebration in Kent.

There will be refreshments to keep revellers warm, with food stalls, mulled wine and hot chestnuts planned. Other food and drink will be available from the many restaurants and bars on the Pantiles.

"It will bring a great atmosphere to the Pantiles and give an amazing focus to Tunbridge Wells for New Year’s Eve that is long overdue" - Julian Leefe-Griffiths

Julian Leefe-Griffiths, who owns the Tunbridge Wells Hotel said: "The hotels, bars and restaurants are delighted to be supporting this fantastic event.

"It will bring a great atmosphere to the Pantiles and give an amazing focus to Tunbridge Wells for New Year’s Eve that is long overdue.

"It reinforces all the excellent work that has been done over the past years by the Pantiles Traders' Association to make the Pantiles the festive and culinary heart of the town, with events such as Jazz on the Pantiles in the summer and the spring and autumn food festivals."

The event will be free to children aged 12 and under, with adults and teenagers being asked to donate three £2 coins. Additional funds will be raised through sponsorship.

Mr Andrew added: "We've had amazing offers of support, with lots of local businesses offering their services for nothing, from designing our great logo to drumming up publicity. But to pull off an event this big – and raise thousands of pounds for these great charities – we need more."

For more info visit: www.hug-many.co.uk