A Kent town has been named the happiest place to live in the south east.

Historic Tonbridge proudly took the top spot beating the likes of Guildford, Winchester and Brighton in a survey by Rightmove.

The property expert's annual Happy at Home Index asked more than 21,000 people how they felt about where they live.

They were asked to rank 10 happiness factors ranging from how friendly the neighbours are and how good the local services are, to the sense of belonging and the quality of nature and green spaces.

The data showed compared to previous years, lockdown has given people a new appreciation for their home surroundings by offering a chance to reconnect with their local area.

More than 36% said because of the pandemic they now appreciate their home town more than ever, 46% said there’s been no change, and only 18% said they now like their area less.

Data property expert Tim Bannister explained: “Despite all the challenges that this year has brought, many people have been able to reconnect with their local area and community which has had a positive effect on how they feel about where they live.

“Overall, I think lockdown has enabled people to rediscover what’s on their doorstep, and spending more time in their local areas has made people value their surroundings and communities so much more.

While taking first place in the south east, Tonbridge also ranked the 15th happiest places in Great Britain.

St Ives in Cornwall came first followed by Skipton in Yorkshire, Leamington Spa in the West Midlands, Llandrindod Wells in Wales and Perth in Scotland.

Read more: All the latest news from Tonbridge