Angry residents say plans to erect an 8ft high security fence around a Gravesend school will make it "look like a prison" and affect their property values.

St George's School, in Meadow Road, wants to erect the fence as trespassing on to its grounds has worsened. In one incident, two weeks ago, a school caretaker was headbutted when he asked a man to leave.

Nick Redman, 59, who lives behind the school, appreciates the need for security but reckons the fence will lower the value of his home by five per cent.

Mr Redman wants it painted green, instead of black, to make it discreet and has written to the school and MP Chris Pond.

Headteacher of St George's School Ray Slade said: "The fence we have at the moment is too low which means too many intruders are cutting across the grounds.

"The only reason we decided to have a black fence was because we were advised black would blend in with the surrounding area. We are currently looking at amending the original application."