In 2005, whilst researching information for the 95th Rifles Re-enactments Society Chris Shaw was searching for the regimental birthplace of the Rifles at Shorncliffe. After contacting the seller of the map, local Folkestone historian Michael George, Chris visited the Redoubt and found it to be terribly overgrown and neglected. Immediately Chris and Michael set up the Shorncliffe Redoubt Preservati
on Society (SRPS) with the aim to protect, preserve and regenerate the Redoubt and surrounding parkland for future generations. The SRPS has been fighting to save the area from redevelopment and has been working to purchase the site and set up the Shorncliffe Heritage and Cultural centre. The SRPS changed from a Society and local “pressure group” into a charitable Trust on the 24 May 2013. Since achieving Charitable status the Trust has been working hard to recruit volunteer’s to the Management team with the necessary skills to advance the goals of the Trust. The Trust is currently run by 4 Trustees and several volunteers. Support for the Trust has come from many sources including Sandgate Parish Council and its members who have recognised the value of this project to the local community and its greater significance to British Heritage. Working with the local community and having an open door policy from the outset to comments, suggestions and ideas from local people the Shorncliffe Trust have incorporated the ideas into their business strategy. The Trust and its members have gained support for the project after being featured in local newspapers, radio and television reports in a positive light. Further support for this project has come from across the local and national political spectrum including The Head of Shepway Council, Robert Bliss, and ex-MP Michael Howard, current MP Damien Collins, as well as heads of departments within Shepway Council and Sandgate councils. One of Shorncliffe’s unique selling points is that it is the birthplace of the legendary 95th Riffles Regiment of Foot “the Green Jackets” created in 1803. This regiment and a fictitious hero have become world famous through the books and TV series created by Bernard Cornwell. From the outset Bernard Cornwell has given his unreserved support to the Shorncliffe Trust and will become one of the Trust’s patrons.
