A new sound system will be bought by Sir Roger Manwood’s School thanks to a donation from the firm which proposes to build a mast taller than the Shard at Richborough.

Vigilant Global UK pledged the cash regardless of whether it receives planning permission for the controversial application.

The donation follows an earlier promise to upgrade the communications system at nearby Sandwich Technology School in April.

School business manager Thomas Molloy said: “We are delighted to receive this generous contribution towards a new sound system for the school’s hall.

“The hall plays an important role in our curricular and extra-curricular activities as it’s the main space in which we can bring people together.

“We hope this is the first of many ways in which we can work with Vigilant Global to the benefit of the whole Sir Roger Manwood’s School community.”

Eric Bellerive, director of global networks at Vigilant Global, said: “We’re committed to giving back to the communities and we are delighted to be able to extend our support to Sir Roger Manwood’s, having already worked with Sandwich Technology School.

“We’re looking forward to building a long term relationship with these schools, and with other schools and community groups in the area.”

Despite the public’s general desire for only one tower, both Vigilant Global and competitor New Line Network have submitted individual applications for communication masts more than 300m tall. They are yet to be considered by DDC.

Craig Mackinlay, MP for Sandwich, said: “I warmly welcome Vigilant Global’s generous donation to Sir Roger Manwood’s School, as part of their stated commitment to contributing to the community.

“I have been in close contact with both of the companies that have submitted planning applications for masts in the constituency, and continue to encourage them to work together to deliver a proposal for a single mast.”

Could they help you? Groups in the Richborough, Ash and Sandwich area are encouraged to contact the team at info@richboroughmast.co.uk