In a bid to safeguard the important work of Edenbridge’s Community Warden, house-builder Regalpoint is urging businesses and organisations connected with the West Kent town to dig deep into their pockets.

For more than five years, Alex Stephen has been Edenbridge’s eyes and ears on the streets in his role as Community Warden. His duties include arranging clearance of litter, fly-tipping and removal of graffiti and dumped cars, as well as getting involved with the community. He also acts as an effective link between residents, public services and agencies including the police, district and town councils as well as voluntary organisations

The former policeman has proved a hugely popular figure but his post is now under threat due to a cut in funding. Sevenoaks District Council has been responsible for the major share of funding in recent years, after the Government pulled out of the scheme that it originally set up. However, this will change from March 2009 when the district council will cease funding its share.

Edenbridge Town Council, West Kent Housing Association, Moat Housing Association and the Great Stonebridge Trust, which have also helped pay for the scheme in the past, are now looking at a shortfall of around £28,000 and Sevenoaks-based Regalpoint, which has two building developments in Edenbridge at Stonebridge Place and Taylour Mews, is keen to help.

Managing Director Tony Porter pledged £1,000 to help pay for the role to continue and added: “We have had first-hand experience of what a good job Alex does and I believe it is very important for the town that this role should continue in the future. The position is very varied and he helps contribute to the warm atmosphere of the town and is a vital link to the community - both young and old.

“I would urge other businesses and organisations that have the town’s interests at heart to contribute whatever they can so Edenbridge can continue to benefit from having a Community Warden.”

Chairman of Edenbridge Town Council Cllr Jill Davison said the position was vital to the town adding: “The Community Warden has made such a difference to the quality of people’s community life, keeping the persistent graffiti at bay, and providing a friendly link with services in the town.”

Any company or individual interested in contributing should contact Deputy Town Clerk Kathy Staff on 01732 865368. To find out more about Regalpoint visit the website regalpoint.co.uk or call 01732 450184.