Ashford's Century-Old WWI Tank Faces Controversial 170-Mile Move to Dorset
The town of Ashford is embroiled in a passionate battle to preserve a piece of living history that has stood proudly in its town centre for 106 years. A rare Mark IV tank from World War I, which arrived in Ashford on August 1, 1919, now faces the prospect of being relocated 170 miles away to The Tank Museum in Bovington, Dorset, for essential restoration work.
Community Outcry and a Growing Petition
Residents and local business owners have launched a determined campaign to keep the tank in Ashford, where it has become an integral part of the town's identity. A petition urging Ashford Borough Council to restore the tank locally and return it to St George's Square has already garnered more than 1,400 signatures, rapidly approaching the 1,500 threshold required for a full council debate.
Business owners Ayten Yilmaz and Kate Edwards are at the forefront of this movement. Miss Yilmaz, who operates By the Tank Cafe adjacent to the landmark, emphasized the tank's crucial role in her livelihood. "If it left, I would have to completely shut down because most of the people who come to visit the tank come and have a tea or coffee," she explained. "It's so emotional, people saving this country and fighting for it – it should be left for Ashford people here."
Miss Edwards, who runs Kall Kwik printing business nearby, highlighted the historical significance of the tank. "It's a part of Ashford with historical value," she said. "It shows what everyone gave up back in the day so we want to make sure that isn't lost forever."
The Tank's Precarious Condition and National Significance
The armoured vehicle, designated as No 245, is a listed landmark that has deteriorated significantly over time. Council leader Cllr Noel Ovenden warned that "the tank is in danger of literally falling apart – the rust has taken hold, and if nothing is done in the next five or 10 years, it will be beyond repair."
This Mark IV tank holds exceptional historical importance. It was one of 265 vehicles presented by the National War Savings Committee to towns that demonstrated exceptional generosity in purchasing war bonds. Today, Ashford's tank stands as the only Mark IV on public outdoor display in the United Kingdom and one of merely seven survivors worldwide.
Resident Fears and Council Response
Longtime residents have expressed deep concern about the potential loss of this cultural icon. Phillip Lawrence, 84, shared his apprehension: "I'm worried we'll wake up one day and it's just gone – that's my biggest fear. I just know the tank is a big part of Ashford."
Barry Quaife, 82, echoed these sentiments, noting how recent changes in Ashford have affected him personally. "During the last year, Ashford has changed so much and it's made me angry and sad," he said. "It feels like its culture is just disappearing."
Ashford Borough Council maintains that only preliminary discussions with tank restoration organizations have occurred and that no final decision will be made without comprehensive public consultation. Cllr Ovenden stated: "Any action taken by the council to secure the long-term survival of this nationally important asset will, out of necessity, involve consultation with the public and other significant stakeholders."
Financial Challenges and Future Considerations
The council has allocated £1 million toward restoring Ashford's historical assets, but officials acknowledge this funding will not cover all necessary repairs after years of neglect. Cllr Bill Barrett, who supports the petition, emphasized the community's determination: "Our aim is to make sure the tank stays in the borough of Ashford. We need 1,500 people to sign it as that is the threshold of verified signatures needed to debate at full council."
Local traders have become increasingly resolved in their fight following the closure of the nearby Park Mall, which is being converted into residential units. The council plans to present potential restoration options later this year for councillor review before opening the discussion to public input.
As the petition continues to gain momentum, with organizers aiming for 3,000 signatures, the future of Ashford's cherished WWI tank remains uncertain. The community's emotional connection to this historical artifact underscores the broader tension between preservation needs and local heritage identity.
