Cllr. Heather Hayward

16/08/2026

☀️🐾 Aldington & Bonnington Summer Fete! 🐾☀️

The Aldington & Bonnington Summer Fete is in full swing today at Reynolds Fields, Aldington! 🎪

I have the honour of judging the Best Rescue category in the Paul O’Grady Dog Show later today, so I’m looking forward to meeting some very special four-legged contestants. 🐶❤️

There are lots of fantastic stalls, live music, delicious food and plenty to see and do.

If you get the chance, pop down and join the fun! 🎶🍰🐕☀️

15/08/2026

A real privilege to have been asked to deliver a speech today at the IDUK GROUP - Indian Diaspora in UK in Kent celebration of India’s 80th Independence Day 🇮🇳🇬🇧

It was wonderful to see so many incredibly talented young people taking part, with some fantastic singing, dancing and spoken word performances. A truly inspiring celebration of culture, community and the next generation. ❤️

And a big thank you to my good friend Penny for being my consort today and keeping me company! 😊

05/08/2026

Do you have a young person age between 11-17years getting under your feet today? If so send them down to Civic Park Tannery Lane Ashford for the Reach Out youth festival. Live music, food stalls, lots of activities and freebies to pick up too! It's on till 7pm. I can confirm the ice cream is yum!

03/08/2026

I've been told that the flags displayed on lamp posts around Ashford are intended as an expression of pride in being British.

Whatever your views on the flags themselves, if they're going to be displayed, they should be looked after. In Roman ward, several are now torn, faded and weather-worn, which doesn't reflect pride or respect. (The pictures below were taken at Britannia Lane/Ashford Road roundabout tonight)

If they're going to remain in place, it would be good to see them either replaced or removed once they've reached the end of their life.

As I'm scared of heights and hate ladders, I'm not volunteering to climb up there!!

23/07/2026

It was a pleasure to attend the launch of Biryanis and More Ashford in the High Street today.

What a fantastic transformation! It's wonderful to see the long-vacant former KFC unit brought back to life and turned into such a vibrant, welcoming restaurant. This is exactly the kind of investment that helps breathe new life into our town centre.

The food was absolutely amazing – packed with flavour, beautifully presented, and with something for everyone. If my first visit is anything to go by, I think Biryanis & More is set to become Ashford's new go-to place to eat.

Wishing the entire team every success with their new venture. I'd highly recommend giving them a try and supporting another fantastic local business when they open next week. Welcome to Ashford! 🍛🎉

18/07/2026

What a fantastic day representing the Mayor of Ashford in my role as Deputy Mayor at two very different but equally inspiring events.

This morning, I had the honour of attending the Da Base Music Centre Awards, where I met some incredibly talented young people, as well as Carolina, the founder of Ashford Freeshop. It was wonderful to celebrate the achievements and creativity of so many local young people.

This afternoon, I was trusted with a rather important pair of sharp scissors to officially cut the ribbon and open the brand-new kitchen at Shadoxhurst Village Hall. Fittingly named Hannah's Kitchen, it is a lasting tribute to an amazing and much-loved member of the Shadoxhurst community.

A big thank you to my consorts for the day, Penny and Ian, for their support. It was also lovely to catch up with fellow councillors Linda Harman, David Ledger and Aline Hicks.

Days like today remind me what a privilege it is to meet so many inspiring people and celebrate the incredible community spirit across our borough.

05/07/2026

I had a fabulous time at the World in a Tent festival this afternoon at Victoria Park. It was great to see so many families present enjoying the food, music and dancing.
I had a henna tattoo on my hand, bought some colourful African trousers and enjoyed several amazing Nepalese and carribean dishes.
Huge congratulations to all involved for such a great event, which highlights the rich culture and diversity in our town.

04/07/2026

It's market day in Ashford Town Centre! And lovely weather for it too!

☀️ United Makers of Kent Market – TODAY! ☀️
What better way to spend a glorious sunny day than heading into Ashford Town Centre and soaking up the best of our local talent at the United Makers of Kent Market! 💚
It’s set to be a HOT one 🔥 so don’t forget your suncream and stay hydrated 💧
Ashford will be buzzing with an incredible mix of local makers, food traders and creatives — the perfect excuse for a wander into town 🙌

There will be....
🎨 Art, jewellery, books & handmade homeware
🍰 Delicious cakes & sweet treats
🍯 Local honey, beers & ales
🥙 Seriously tasty street food
👉 Join us between 10am–4pm and support our amazing Ashford businesses

📅 TODAY - Saturday 4 July
📍 Ashford Town Centre (Bandstand area, outside Barclays & along Middle Row)
⏰ 10am – 4pm
👉 More information via our website (link in our comments below)

📸 Big thanks to Matt Wilson for the lovely photo!

28/06/2026

This weekend, I had the privilege of attending five events on behalf of the Mayor of Ashford. I met local volunteers, service personnel, traders, Dame Kelly Holmes, the Mayor of Sevenoaks, and even cooked up a feast in a cardboard kitchen.

*Friday*

Beating the Retreat at Hole Park — attended with our military champion, Cllr Peter Feacey.

*Saturday*

Ashford Freeshop 1-Month Anniversary — attended with my friend Penny Bigwood.

Kent Pride Games at the Julie Rose Stadium.

LoveAshford Food & Drink Festival.

*Sunday*

People’s Emergency Briefing — attended with Mandy Rossi.

It was a fantastic weekend celebrating community spirit, local organisations, and the people who make Ashford such a vibrant place to live and work.

And yet someone is sure to say...
"Nothing ever happens in Ashford....."
If anyone dares to say this to me I'll direct them to this post...!

25/06/2026

It's an important day today for our area as Kingsnorth Primary School celebrate their 160th birthday today!!
Unfortunately I'm not able to attend their celebration assembly this morning so I sent them this video message instead.
🎉 Happy Birthday Kingsnorth!! 🎉