A security guard was allegedly assaulted while attempting to control a crowd outside a council building.

The Securitas staff member claims a member of the public put their hands around her neck as she let people into Thanet District Council's headquarters.

It happened on Thursday night, but has only just come to light.

During public council meetings only five people are let into the building at a time due to issues in the past with overcrowding in the reception lobby.

Following the “disruptive behaviour” at the full council meeting, it was adjourned and the public gallery was closed for the next session on Monday.

It comes after supporters shouted from the public gallery in protest at a councillor being sacked from his position due to an alleged conflict of interest.

Ian Venables (Lab) was removed as the Margate Central representative after accepting a job which involves working with the council's team tackling homelessness.

County councillor for Margate, Barry Lewis, was among the supporters of Mr Venables but did not witness to the incident.

Representing the campaigners, he said: “I think it is disgusting that the council has put their staff in this position by not allowing everyone to come into the meeting.

“I condemn any intimidation by the public to the hardworking council staff and they, like Ian, are a victim of the council’s intransigence.”

“I think it is disgusting that the council has put their staff in this position by not allowing everyone to come into the meeting..." - Cllr Barry Lewis

Cllr Lewis added police officers came to the council building on Monday and “they agreed that we were acting in a peaceful way”.

Thanet council claims Mr Venables was disqualified because he is working indirectly for the local authority but his lawyers argue his employer continues to be The Forward Trust, a charity which helps people with drug and alcohol dependence.

However, councillors voted overwhelmingly against declaring a councillor vacancy last night.

A council spokesman said: “There is absolutely no justification for the actions displayed by some members of the public on Thursday towards security guards, elected members and officers of the council, who all have the right to carry out their duties without fear of threats or intimidation.

“Our security guards, provided by Securitas, have the appropriate training to oversee public attendance at council meetings, however the behaviour displayed by some members of the public on Thursday evening was totally unacceptable.

“This type of behaviour does not happen regularly, but will still be taken very seriously.

“Footage from our CCTV cameras will be reviewed and where appropriate, further investigation will take place.”

Police have been contacted for comment.