It’s already been a very busy summer for members of East Kent Mencap (EKM) who have won a football league and been training on the radio among other things.

The group, based at Seashells Children and Families’ Centre in Sheerness, is the Times Guardian and Sittingbourne New Extra's Charity of the Year.

It supports more than 20 people from the Island and Sittingbourne with learning difficulties and their families and carers.

After Sheppey FM received funding from the Dannyboy Trust to run courses for people under 25, four EKM users signed up to take part. Their last session is today (Thursday).

Over the last few weeks they have been learning how radio works, DJ techniques, how to use the equipment and other kills.

Many of them have also had practice talking live to build their confidence.

It is hoped they will go back regularly and could even end up with their own shows.

EKM community manager Jaime Gidding said: “They have absolutely loved it and had a whale of a time.”

The charity’s football team the Swale Spiders has celebrated success after coming runners-up in the Kent Disability Championship League.

They were presented with a medal, coin, trophy and plate and Jaime said it was a real achievement for them, especially as they came second to bottom last year.

"They have done really well – it was very emotional,” she said.

“They were over the moon and are very excited and looking forward to next season.”

Off the back of this year’s success, the group is now hoping to launch a women’s football team as there is nothing for disabled women in Kent.

With the help of Swale council’s sports development officer Elaine Price they have secured £3,500 of funding from Sportivate.

Weekly training sessions are being held for anyone – male or female – who would be interested in signing up to a team.

They take place at Swallows leisure centre in Sittingbourne on Monday from 5pm to 6pm and are for those aged 15 to 25.

If they are able to launch a women’s team it will be the first in Kent.

The charity is also hoping for funding to create a sensory garden at Seashells which will be for the whole community to enjoy.

For more information about the football, phone Elaine on 07861732517.