One of Whitstable’s best-loved open spaces should be protected after an agreement was signed between city council officers and members of the Friends of Duncan Down.

The memorandum of understanding was suggested after contractors damaged trees in the area last year instead of cutting back scrub as they had been instructed.

The Friends hope it will prevent similar problems because honorary wardens will now be authorised to meet workers and keep an eye on their progress.

Secretary Ashley Clark said: “Duncan Down is too valuable a place to leave matters to chance.

“We are well-placed to advise and direct any external contractors as well as providing an essential link between the public and the site’s management in order to best explain what is taking place.”

~For full story see this week’s Whitstable Gazette.