Background

The Crab and Winkle Line Trust was set up on the 3rd May 1997, when a few friends met at the pond (mid point) with a view to bring the old line back into public use for walkers, cyclists and the disabled. In 1999, we became a nationally-registered charity (Registered Charity no. 1077110).

Our vision is of a path along the old railway line taking local people and visitors along 6 traffic-free miles through unspoilt countryside and woodland from Canterbury to Whitstable. We hope that they'll learn something of the old railway line along the way. The Trust now has two official addresses - one in Canterbury and one in Whitstable.

Objectives of the Trust

“To promote and assist, for the public benefit, the construction and maintenance of a public access route between Canterbury and Whitstable, including a pedestrian path and safe cycle route, along the historic railway route known as the Crab and Winkle Line, which will provide recreation facilities, promote environmental protection and reduce traffic congestion.”

“To advance the education of the public in the history of the old Canterbury to Whitstable railway, known as the Crab and Winkle Line.”

Sponsors and Supporters

Sponsors and prominent supporters include:

Canterbury City Council
Kent County Council
SUSTRANS
Bretts
Julian Brazier, MP
The Kentish Stour
Countryside Project
SPOKES

Patron and Trustees

The patron of the Trust is Mr Peter Firmin, renowned illustrator and local resident. The trustees are:

Marcial Bóo (Chairman)
Robin Townsend (Secretary)
William Leetham (Treasurer)
Steve Doran (Membership Secretary/Webmaster)
John Burden
John Hiscott
David Sims
Jane Rose
Richard Parkinson
Simon Rowan
Jon Shelton
Nigel Van Der Bijl
Malcolm White