Excessive damp, condemned stairs and the need for a new kitchen have added up to a difficult time for Deal Air Cadets.

As the RAF youth group, which is based in Hope Road, prepares to move forward with its regular training, it is appealing for help from kind hearted tradesman to help them fit a kitchen.

The need comes after the squadron battled against closure in 2019, and as they fought off that threat, more members joined resulting in more costs.

But then, as the pandemic led to the temporary closure of the drill hall, the building began to deteriorate.

The MOD, which owns the building, has agreed to carry out a major refurbishment, and builders spent months making extensive exterior and interior repairs, but the renovations highlighted the defunct kitchen.

Responsibility for replacing it falls to the squadron.

Thanks to Benchmarx Kitchens and Joinery in Folkestone, the committee got replacement units, worktops, plus two sinks and all the fittings.

Benchmarx Manager, Steven Convery explained why he wanted to help.

He said: "I am a big advocate for youth projects and see them as essentials in our society. "

Now, with the new units but without the expertise or the funds to pay for a carpenter or a pumber, the Cadets are appealing for specialist help in getting it put in place.

Committee member Sue Fyfe said: "If you have the skills and a little time to spare, they would love to hear from you."

If you have the tools and the know-how, Flying Officer Stuart Gemmell can be contacted on 07751 713511 or call committee member Sue Fyfe on 07976 902009.

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