Earlier in 2026, Sandgate Parish Council were delighted to nominate Patrick Butler for the KALC Community Award 2026 in recognition of his outstanding contribution to the village.
The nomination highlighted that, for 18 years, he has built the Village Store as the heart of Sandgate, providing an exceptional range of goods and services and consistently going the extra mile to strengthen community spirit. In addition over the last year he had, alongside Freya, taken on full control of “The Bar” at 96 Sandgate High Street, and Curio Gallery at 101 Sandgate High Street, each bringing new life and footfall to the High Street.
Patrick formally received his award certificate last month from Jonathan Neame, Deputy Lord Lieutenant of Kent, at Shepherd Neame Brewery, and also undertook a tour of the brewery.
Additionally on 27th April, Patrick attended the Parish Council meeting for a second presentation from Parish Chair Tim Prater, who thanked Patrick for bringing a huge amount to Sandgate over nearly 20 years. At the meeting, Patrick outlined potential options for the former Christopher Buck premises, which he is leasing from the Masonic Lodge. He advised that initial ideas could include hot desking facilities, together with a gallery and studio space for a local artist Robbie Graham to work in view of the public.
In the longer term, Patrick indicated there was a possibility of reinstating the premises as three separate units, as historically. Potential uses include a pharmacy (although this has a lot of red tape complexity), launderette, and juice bar, with alternative seasonal uses also under consideration. He confirmed that the freeholders (the Masonic Lodge) had been very supportive.
The Parish Council congratulated Patrick on his award, and a photograph was taken with the Chair for inclusion on the Parish Council website.