Put your watches an hour forward, you are entering Tenterden time!

It may sound crazy, but a suggestion has been made that the town adopts central European time.

It received the backing of members at the annual meeting of Tenterden Chamber of Commerce where president Mike Carter floated the idea.

“It was done as a bit of fun, but there is a serious side to it,” said Cllr Carter.

“I think we should start lobbying for Tenterden to move closer in line with the rest of Europe.

“It would be great for tourism to have the extra hour sitting outside and people would save on their electricity bills.

“For quality of life, businesses and leisure time it would be so much better.”

Cllr Carter plans to start lobbying MP Damian Green to put pressure on the government to rethink our clocks.

“It would be great for tourism to have the extra hour sitting outside and people would save on their electricity bills..." - Cllr Mike Carter

The chamber has a meeting with Mr Green later this month and he intends to raise it there.

“I think we should seriously push this forward,” said Cllr Carter.

“Tenterden is a real tourist hub and we need to cash in on the millions spent in the area and make the best of it.

“I hope this gets people talking and thinking about the idea.”

When Cllr Carter raised the question at the chamber annual meeting, the majority of those present voted in favour.

Tenterden has been twinned with Avallon in France for 25 years.

Judy Turk, chairman of the Tenterden & District Twinning Association, said: “I think it would be a great idea for England.

“Businesses would be on the same time and it would not get dark so early.

“I can’t say I have noticed having the extra hour when we have been in France, but then we only go for three days.”

Twinners are going to Avallon later this month for celebrations marking the quarter century of friendship.

If the extra hour plan gains momentum, what next? Conduire sur le droit? (Drive on the right).