A popular east London nature reserve looks set to introduce car parking charges at its visitor centre, but will scrap its entrance fee.

RSPB Rainham Marshes will have car parking charges at the Purfleet visitor centre from January 8.

The Rainham wing of the Royal Society for the Protection of Birds (RSPB), a conservation charity, announced the move this week on Facebook.

"Parking will remain free for RSPB members and Blue Badge holders," it said.

"There will no longer be a charge to enter the reserve itself, so everyone can access the nature trails and bird hides free of charge."

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At the moment, non-member entrance costs are £6 for adults, £4 for students and £3 for children.

The charity added that income from parking charges was "vital" to looking after the reserve and its wildlife.

Here are the car parking prices per vehicle from January 8:

• £1 for up to 1 hour

• £2 for up to 2 hours

• £5 for over 2 hours (up to an entire day)

• £15 per coach/minibus

• RSPB members and Blue Badge holders - free

People can pay via a phone app, or at the visitor centre, RSPB Rainham added.