A council has been left "angered and frustrated" after mindless arsonists destroyed a newly installed state-of-the-art bin at a public park.

Folkestone and Hythe District Council brought in the 12 high-tech Big Belly Bins during the summer at a cost of £83,000.

Solar-panelled technology sends electronic signals which are remotely monitored when they are full in order to be emptied.

But one of the compactors, which cost nearly £7,000 each, was found alight this morning.

A council spokeswoman said: "The bin has been completely wrecked and damaged beyond repair.

"We are arranging for it to be removed and we are assessing our next step. We believe it was started deliberately."

The wrecked bin is the one located immediately below the Leas Cliff Hall in the Coastal Park.

The receptacles can hold up to eight times more refuse than standard refuse containers.

The spokeswoman continued: "We are obviously angered and frustrated that anyone would deliberately set out to damage or destroy one of these bins, which are doing so much to help reduce litter in this much-loved park.

"The bins not only represent a significant financial investment but are a demonstration of one of our key priorities – keeping our district clean and looking good. We are sure that everyone who uses the park will share our feelings."

Kent Fire and Rescue Service confirmed crews were called to the scene just before 6.15am.

One engine was sent to extinguish the blaze and it is believed that the fire was started deliberately.

Some people met the bin proposals with a frosty reception earlier this year, claiming the money could better be spent elsewhere.

But the council's corporate contracts manager Andrew Rush argued it would free up council workers’ time and help save money by being 'scheduled on demand'.

In a recent cabinet report he wrote: "This allows for more responsive emptying and more efficient use of existing staff time and vehicles."

Their introduction came after a series of weekends where high numbers of visitors used the park, recently awarded a Green Flag, which led to overflowing bins.

The authority also launched its ‘Pick Me Up Before You Go Go’ campaign around the same time as a reminder to visitors and residents to keep the district tidy.