A council is in talks with history trusts about improving protective measures at the town's famous tank.

Residents have raised fears on social media about children climbing on the Mark IV machine in Ashford, No 245, which was driven through the streets to its home in St George’s Square on August 1, 1919.

There are concerns the historic vehicle could be damaged when people clamber on it.

An Ashford Borough Council spokesman said: "Further protective measures are being considered as part of the ongoing discussions between Ashford Borough Council, Historic England and the War Memorials Trust.

"The Mark IV Tank situated in the town centre is an integral part of the town’s rich heritage.

"As a Grade II-listed, registered war memorial, we are extremely lucky to house such an important historical artefact, and as such would always ask that residents and those visiting the town centre treat it with the care and respect it deserves so that it can be enjoyed by everyone and be preserved for future generations."

The tank was given to the town in 1919 as a reward for the high number of war bonds bought by the town during the Great War.

The model was the most numerous in the British army during the conflict with 1220 being built, but Ashford's example is one of only seven to remain 100 years later.

It is also the world's only example still displayed outside and openly for public viewing.

Last November, Cllr Stephen Dehnel - ABC's armed forces champion - said the tank will be completely refurbished to mark 100 years since it arrived in the town.

The centenary will be marked in August 2019.