Chatham Town strengthening ties with the community by giving up time for civic projects on weekly basis

Chatham Town are hoping to make a difference off the pitch with their community hour scheme.

The recently-launched initiative from the non-league club is aimed at giving something back to the town and supporting local neighbourhoods.

The programme, named ‘Chats Community Hour’ has seen first-team players, club staff, academy students and volunteers dedicate one hour every Thursday to community-focused projects.

In recent weeks, this has included projects such as litter picking, improving public spaces and supporting local estates.

The initiative has already received a hugely positive response from residents following recent visits to areas including Kitchener Avenue, the White Road Estate, Bournville Avenue, Palmerston Park and Magpie Hall Road.

Chatham chairman and first-team manager Kevin Hake said: “We believe a football club should be at the heart of its community.

“The response we’ve had so far has been fantastic and it shows what can be achieved when people come together with a shared purpose.

“This isn’t about one-off events - we want to create a real movement that encourages fans, local businesses and volunteers to join us in making a lasting positive impact across the town.”

Chats have been big on community focus and together with success on the pitch crowds for home games at the Bauvill Stadium have increased.

In 2022, the club were presented with the Queen’s Award for Voluntary Service and during the Covid lockdowns members were out and about doing what they could to assist in the community.

Club members and supporters were recently in attendance at the Historic Dockyard for the launch of Chatham’s campaign to be crowned UK Town of Culture for 2028.

Local businesses have already begun supporting the latest