A woman says residents are living in fear after the arrival of asylum seekers in Wilmington.

Amanda Hilton, 46, of Barn End Lane, noticed the “group of men” staying in the same road on April 15.

The asylum seekers have been placed next to Emily Court, a residential home for the elderly.

Ms Hilton told News Shopper: “It was me who found out what was going on and Kent County Council was never aware of it.

“We have asylum seekers living near vulnerable residents and they always congregate in the street which is very intimidating.

“We all live in a small village and the asylum seekers are all men – there are no families.

“My daughter has to walk around in the village and I’m petrified for her. I’m even scared to walk my dog – residents are scared and should not have to feel this way.”

Since 2000, asylum accommodation has been contracted through a range of organisations in the private, public and third sector.

Providers are monitored extremely closely to ensure accommodation meets the required standards and the contracts include measures to ensure any issues are quickly addressed.

A Home Office spokesman said: “The UK has a long history of granting asylum to those who need our protection and we are committed to providing safe and secure accommodation while applications are considered.

“We are clear that all providers must meet their contractual requirements to provide safe, habitable, fit for purpose and correctly equipped accommodation in compliance with the Housing Act 2004 and the Decent Homes Standard.

“We work closely with providers and local authorities to ensure that these standards are met while at the same time delivering value for taxpayers.

“All providers must consult the relevant local authority when procuring new properties. We work closely with any local authority that raises concerns about asylum dispersal to help address those concerns.

“This includes closely monitoring existing arrangements and the impact on local services and community cohesion.”