A £300,000 project to transform gardens at the Royal British Legion Village into a national memorial have been given the go-ahead.

The plans, for a refurbished area with a bandstand, parade ground and amphitheatre seating, were granted permission from Tonbridge and Malling Borough Council last Friday.

It comes as confirmation was received that horticultural students from Hadlow College would be involved in planting and design of the soft landscaping.

Work on the site will begin in May, with the garden expected to be finished in the autumn, in time for the centenary commemorations for the First World War.

Penny Dyson, secretary to the Friends of RBLI, said the group was delighted, adding: “We are now able to begin our fundraising campaign with confidence.

“We welcome support from organisations, groups or individuals that wish to be part of the Garden of Honour project through donations or gifts.

“The granting of the planning permission and Hadlow College’s commitment to the project marks our first milestone in delivering a memorial garden dedicated to all those who serve.”

More details of how people can contribute and volunteer for the project will be available in the coming weeks.