Podcast: Private security firm Akon brought in to crack down on anti-social behaviour in Herne Bay

KentOnline

Private security guards have been brought in to help tackle anti-social behaviour in Herne Bay.

A company called Akon has been given a six-week contract to support council enforcement teams and police. It's costing £8,500 and comes after concerns about gangs of young people "terrorising" the town.

Also in today's podcast, organisers of a free princess-themed event in Maidstone have been forced to cancel it due to council charges.

Snow Princess Parties holds an annual parade in Brenchley Gardens - where youngsters can meet their favourite fairytale and Disney characters.

Plans to help families with the cost of living are due to be discussed later, as figures show 30% of children in Medway are living in poverty.

The number of pupils eligible for free school meals has doubled in the last nine years. Hear from Medway Council leader Vince Maple.

We've been hearing how important it is to get children in Kent involved in the creative arts.

The Gulbenkian in Canterbury is running a series of events over the next few months to encourage families to get involved in arts and theatre, we've been speaking to Artistic Director David Sefton.

One of the stars of TV's Neighbours has been in Kent to mark a very special birthday.

Alan Fletcher, who played Dr Karl Kennedy in the Aussie soap, visited Maplewood Court in Maidstone to meet resident Hilda Howes who has turned 100.

A victory parade has been taking place in London to celebrate the Lionesses winning the women's Euros.

Kent's Alessia Russo scored an equaliser in the final against Spain on Sunday night taking the game to extra time and penalties.

Crowds lined the Mall to see the squad before they lifted the trophy on a stage in front of Buckingham Palace.