Our History
A stone's throw from the Fountain roundabout in New Malden, Kingston Environment Centre is a thriving community resource run by a dedicated team of volunteers. The building was previously a public toilet, became a youth centre for a few years around 2005, and since 2013 has taken on a new life as Kingston Environment Centre. The original centre was housed in a former nursery school in Kingston. Still, when this site was allocated to the Quaker Centre for its new building, Kingston Council allowed Kingston Environment Centre to find a new home in New Malden.
Meet our Directors
Pat
Chairperson
Hi, I'm Pat! Currently Chairperson of KEC. I first got involved in 2013 when the centre moved to New Malden, and I set up Stitch and Chat. Other KEC activities that I enjoy are gardening, learning about recycling and meeting new people at our Community Fridge and Save the World's Square1 cafe.
Maggie
Treasurer
Hi, I'm Maggie! I look after the finances at Kingston Environment Centre, keeping a close eye on our bank account to make sure we can pay our bills. I report back to the Directors team at our monthly meetings and work with our accountant to prepare our company annual accounts. I am also involved with our Community Fridge and Stitch and Chat.
Yu Wing Wong
Gardening lead
Hi, my name is Yu Wing Wong and I am from Hong Kong where amongst other things I was a grower of organic vegetables. When I came to the UK in 2022 I started my own Community interest Company, Au Law Farm and also got involved with community gardening in New Malden where I live. I love showing people from Hong Kong and others how to grow their own vegetables especially Choi Sum and Spaghetti squash.
Hugh Williams
IT support
Hi, I'm Hugh Williams and I help KIngston Environment Centre with anything too technical for the rest of them! I am also the link person for Save the World Club as I do media support for them.
Meet our Founders
Jean Vidler
I was one of the original group of people who started Kingston Environment Centre at the Quaker Centre in Kingston. My main role was as Company Secretary, but I did a lot more than that by promoting sustainable living. When I was not at Kingston Environment Centre I would be found in the Green Futures Festival field at Glastonbury.
Sam Hermitage
Like Jean I was one of the first group who developed KIngston Environment Centre. At the same time I set up Kingston Green Radio, based in the 'studio' at the centre. As 'stationmaster' I played music, encouraged up and coming musicians and broadcast shows on topics of environmental interest.
I have now moved to Wales, but pop into the centre whenever I am in town.