DARTFORD parents are forking out up to £200 as their children return to school, according to Cash Converters.

The research identified the cost of uniforms, sports equipment, stationery, art supplies and musical instruments adds up to the cost of two weeks grocery shopping for the average household.

It also found the average home in Dartford has at least £150 of unused and unwanted goods cluttering up the house. 

Cash Converters is urging people to have a clear out of items such as iPods, mobile phones and games consoles to raise instant funds

Chief executive at Cash Converters, David Patrick, said: "Household finances are tight and the majority of people are looking at ways to save money and make cash to pay for life’s necessary expenditures. 

"It is important that parents with school aged children consider alternative routes to both providing equipment and also to raising cash."