Village celebrates mining heritage

A mining village celebrating its 90th anniversary this year will hold a series of events throughout 2017.

And the celebrations at Aylesham have been given a boost by a £10,000 grant from the Celebrate Lottery Fund.

Four free community events are set to be held at the end of June to celebrate the first mining families moving into their new homes in 1927 amid ambitious plans for the rapid expansion of the Kent coalfield.

The first family was headed by a Mr Waterfield, a Snowdown miner, on May 21, 1927. The new township consisted of about 2,000 residents, all central to the mines.

Now the money has been awarded, plans are coming together for the events.

They will include a mix of live entertainment, information stalls and fun activities in four locations, Market Square gardens, the Aylesham Community Project, the local library and the welfare & leisure centre.

Derek Garrity, of the Aylesham Community Project, submitted the application on behalf of a consortium of local partners.

He said: “This is great news and gets 2017 off to a flying start for Aylesham.

“The grant gives residents an ideal opportunity to celebrate and build upon the powerful community spirit which exists here and has proved a vital part of local life for nearly a century.”

Jo Cartledge, the Aylesham Parish Council chairman, added: “With people moving into 1,200 new homes here over the next few years, it’s more important than ever that Aylesham is an inclusive and welcoming community.

“Local community groups, businesses and clubs are invited to join the events to share and showcase the skills, activities and services on offer in our village.”

To get involved call 01304 843844 or email emily.barnes@dover. gov.uk.

Keep tabs on the celebration calendar and learn more about the village’s history at www.ayleshamgardenvillage.co.uk.

Aylesham when the first mining occupants moved in to the new homes. Right, the former Snowdown colliery site today