by Andy Gray

agray@thekmgroup.co.uk

A floating lapdancing club is set to open in Maidstone - sparking furious protests from river users.

The Yacht Club, which will be moored close to the Travelodge, will be a private members' club offering lap dancing, strip shows and an outdoor hot tub.

It will be based on a "James Bond-style" 50ft catamaran and a yacht joined together, and could be open as early as next month.

Its owners insist it will be a respectable business and events inside will not be visible to passing members of the public.

But John Clayton, vice president of nearby Invicta Rowing Club, remains unconvinced and said it was further proof of Maidstone's degeneration.

He said: "Has this town no decency left at all?

"Families use the river all the time - is this something they really want to see?

"It leaves a bad taste in the mouth when this sort of thing is allowed to go on in a rural town like Maidstone."

The boats, which will be stationary and based at Fremlins Moorings off Fairmeadow, are currently being refurbished in readiness for the club's launch in the first two weeks of December.

Owner Karen Elston, who will run the club with husband Dave, said adult entertainment is only part of its service, which includes dining booths and poker tables.

The couple currently run the Three Squirrels pub off the A249 near Delting, where female mud wrestling has proved a popular draw with punters.

Karen said their latest venture will bring money to the area without lowering the tone.

She said: "Lap dancing and strip shows are an addition to the service the club will provide, not the main service.

"It's members only for respectable business people - we won't admit drunks or anyone under 25.

"We are well aware families walk along the tow path along the river, but they won't be to see in from the outside."

She added: "This is isn't your average pound in a jug establishment - we will be employing elegant young ladies not crude girls."

The club is licensed to open until 5am Thursday to Saturday, 10pm on Sundays and every morning from 7am.

"It means members can entertain clients over breakfast while having something beautiful to look at," Karen said.

The owners are currently looking to recruit 20 "bubbly, intelligent girls" to provide the risque entertainment.

Staff are also needed to provide domestic services such as dry cleaning.

There are fears that the club's prominence on the river could affect Maidstone's blue riband summer event.

Cllr David Naghi (LibDem) said: "I'm very concerned about next year's River Festival as it appears this club will open come what may.

"It's an event that attracts a lot families, who I hope won't be put off attending."

But Karen confirmed the club would remain closed to adult entertainment during festival weekend.

"Members can watch the event from the boat, but that's all," she said.

The Yacht Club will become the second adult entertainment enterprise in town, with The Players continuing to do brisk business in the High Street.

Should Maidstone entertain a lap dancing, adults-only club on the river? Write to the Kent Messenger, 7 Middle Row, Maidstone, Kent, ME14 1TG or emailmessengernews@thekmgroup.co.uk