A Tunbridge Wells shopping centre has removed its bins in the wake of the Paris terror attacks.

Bosses at Royal Victoria Place say the removal of half a dozen bins from the main concourse is not permanent but forms part of steps to ensure the safety of customers at the complex.

Staff have also been told to be extra aware and vigilant.

Last Friday 129 people were killed and hundreds more injured in a wave of devastating attacks which swept through the French capital.

Men armed with machine guns opened fire on people in bars, restaurants and a concert hall. Three suicide vests were set off outside the Stade de France stadium.

Early this morning, 23 people were arrested and more than 100 more put under house arrest in over 168 raids on suspected Islamic militants across France.

Nicky Blanchard, manager at Royal Victoria Place shopping centre, said: "Following the awful events of the weekend in Paris we have reviewed our security procedures and can confirm that temporarily bins have been removed from the malls to ensure the safety and welfare of our customers.

She added: "The threat level has not increased but a ‘heightened security awareness’ has been put into practice by the centre team."