A car park submerged under floodwaters on Christmas Day remains shut but the shops above are open, managers have confirmed.

Fremlin Walk's parking area in Fairmeadow, Maidstone, was severely affected by the flooding on Christmas Day.

Centre manager Lloyd Wright said today (Friday): “Our management, security and maintenance teams have been working to ensure the continued safety of staff, customers and the centre itself since the weather deteriorated on Christmas night.

“All shops are accessible and open as usual, fortunately none were affected by the flooding. We can confirm that while our car park is currently closed and passenger lifts are out of operation. We are working with our contractors, staff and authorities to rectify this and will update our website and social media sites on our progress."

He added: "We urge everyone to take care and keep up to date via the local radio, weather channels, council and environment agency websites and updates.”