A group of Christians have been spotted in Ashford town centre handing out free hugs.

The flock are members of Eastgate, in Gravesend, learning Supernatural Ministry and following the European School of Supernatural Life.

One part of their studies is to travel around the county embracing strangers and "spreading some joy".

One hugger, Sandra Bird, explained: "It is about wishing people a good day. Sometimes we end up praying for people who want to be prayed for but we're just hoping to spread some love."

The group were invited down to Ashford by Pastor Dave of the Ashford Christian Fellowship Church.

In just half an hour, stood outside the Centrepiece Church in Bank Street, the group say they've hugged at least 15 people.

Sandra added: "Hugging is amazing and the benefits are enormous. We've had people of all ages wanting hugs, from schoolboys to the elderly.

"Some people do not want a hug and we do not push it, we just smile and wish them a good day.

"We never approach people first, we let them come to us and so we have never had a bad experience.

"If someone says no, they often look a bit embarrassed but we've never had a negative response at all.

"It's a powerful way to spread joy."