Band facing eviction offered new home in Sheppey

The St John Ambulance marching band has been offered a new home just three miles from its existing site

Britian's last remaining St John Ambulance marching band has been offered a new home close to the base it has been using for half a century.

The band, which was based on the Isle of Sheppey in Kent, faced being evicted from its Queenborough Road home after the charity decided to put the building up for sale, citing running costs and the condition of the property.

The band had been offered a site 25 miles (40km) away in Rochester, but members said that was too far for some to travel.

St John Ambulance has now confirmed plans to move the band to Sheppey Rugby Club, three miles (4.8km) away, possibly by the end of September.

The band, which had written to King Charles III to ask him to intervene, is to hold its last meeting at Queenborough Road later on Thursday.

The band was formed in 1946 and is the last of its kind in Britain.

A St John Ambulance spokesperson said the new venue offered a "practical, accessible solution that meets band members' needs".

"St John Ambulance remains committed to supporting Sheppey Band and ensuring they have a suitable space to continue their valued contribution to the community," they said.

"Our decision to close Queenborough Road followed a thorough review of the building's condition, running costs, and suitability for St John Ambulance's wider service needs.

"Sadly, the review confirmed the building was no longer fit for purpose."

Bill Jarvis, 90, is the oldest member of St John Ambulance in the country

But some members of the band are still concerned for its future.

Bill Jarvis, 90, is the oldest St John Ambulance member in the country.

He said: "If the island lost the band, with all the support that they are giving us, then it's upsetting.

"All the past work that's built up with the family on the island and the support the Island gives us will go. I'm sorry, it would be so destructive."

Janet Fry is the third generation of her family that has been involved with the band

Janet Fry is one of three generations from her family who have played with the band and said it was sad to see them move out of the hall.

"We call ourselves the band family, and to be shoved out for silly reasons is unfair," she said.

"This is our home and it shouldn't be happening."