EDENBRIDGE has a new community warden who is ready to deal with complaints about nuisance issues in the town.

Keith Boutcher, who has lived in the area for several years, takes over from the popular Alex Stephen, who retired earlier this year.

Mr Boutcher was appointed by the Edenbridge Community Warden Steering Group, which is funding the new post.

He said: "This role is important for Edenbridge and its surrounding area and it is going to be a new start, both for me and for the town.

"I am very much looking forward to meeting people, listening to their concerns and them getting to know me.

"As a local resident I am very excited at being given this opportunity and can't wait to make a difference."

Mr Boutcher will work four days a week, including some evenings and weekends.

Easing him gently into his new role will be his predecessor, Mr Stephen, who was managed under the previous scheme by Sevenoaks District Council.

The new warden will be patrolling the parish to monitor nuisances, such as graffiti, fly-tipping, and vandalism, and other issues affecting the well-being and safety of the community.

Mr Boutcher will also be "touching base" with local housing association officers.

Steering group chairman Steven Bennett, from West Kent Housing Association, said: "We are thrilled to have Keith in the role of community warden, building on the successful foundations laid by Alex."