A prominent community centre which has been welcoming people for almost 35 years is set to be demolished.

Newly submitted plans reveal the Joe Fagg Pop Inn Centre, in St Johns Lane, Ashford, may be knocked down to make room for 11 car park spaces.

Age UK was given temporary planning permission for the building next to the Vicarage Lane Car Park in 1984, and it was renewed in 1989 with the condition that once the lease ran out the building would be demolished.

The charity surrendered its lease earlier this year, handing control to Ashford Borough Council (ABC).

The authority has now applied for planning permission to flatten the site.

The town centre site provided entertainment, freshly cooked food and a tuck shop for the elderly until earlier this year.

Joe Fagg was a popular local haulage firm owner who provided coach tours for older Ashford residents and supplied the vehicles and drivers for the town's carnival floats.

Called 'Mr Ashford', the former Ashford Football Club manager was awarded an MBE in the 1980's. He was also captain of the golf club, chairman of the local gala day committee and a rotarian.

The well-loved haulier had to speak out in 1958 after rumours spread that he'd died in a car accident. Following the non-fatal collision, he said: "I am very much alive, thank you. I have heard the rumours and had many telephone calls.

"I am used to rumours now, because for a month it has been said that I'm emigrating to Australia. The only place I shall ever emigrate to is South Willesborough."

When Age UK transitioned to its new Stanhope Road centre, Mr Fagg's name was also transferred to the new facility.

The demolition application for the building named after him is set to be decided by Wednesday, November 14.