Bromley Council says there is no cause for alarm over the number of rats in Kelsey Park after the topic was raised on social media.

A Facebook post on Beckenham Appreciation Group about the “astonishing amount of rats” at the park in Manor Way prompted 90 comments.

One person wrote the rats had discouraged her from visiting the park again with her toddler.

However, Bromley Council said it was not uncommon for rats to be spotted around green spaces, especially near water and where there is a food supply.

A council spokesman said: "In addition to potential reports from park visitors and the Friends of Kelsey Park, we do regularly inspect Kelsey Park and when we last visited, last week, it was concluded there was not cause for concern currently.

"In common with all our parks, we will continue to keep this under review - we have laid bait in the past and will do so again if necessary.

"We would encourage park visitors not to leave food in the park, either after a picnic or by over-feeding the ducks as this encourages vermin.

"There is not generally a litter problem in Kelsey Park, with most park users responsibly using the litter bins provided or taking their litter home with them, with our contractor also clearing rubbish away as part of their duties."