Thanet Council needs to save nearly £6m over the next five years as it faces a 'grim' financial future.

The Cabinet was told last night that it needs to cut £1.8m from next year's budget alone.

Thanet chiefs say the financial problems are due to losses in income from sources such as planning fees and land charges as a result of the recession.

But it is also because of a predicted cut in the money the council receives from central government.

The council is looking at achieving savings next year by sharing back-room services with other neighbouring local authorities - and reduce staff costs.