MEMBERSHIP of a new community group is forging ahead as people try to preserve “the most precious jewel” in their town.

Friends of Riverside Gardens Erith (FORGE) has only just been created and already has more than 100 members.

Its mission is to save the Riverside Gardens in Erith High Street from any form of redevelopment.

The gardens are in part of the town designated as Erith Western Gateway, the last of Bexley’s major regeneration projects and townspeople fear the gardens may be vulnerable, as the open space overlooks the river.

Previous plans, vigorously opposed by residents, suggest building on at least part of the gardens.

FORGE’s aim is to have the gardens, together with William Cory Promenade, designated as a town green, which would protect its status as public open space.

The land for the gardens was partially gifted to the people of Erith by William Cory and Son, a major coal company in the area, which carried the fuel on barges up and down the River Thames.

Joan McCarthy from FORGE said: “There is always a threat of future development plans in this area because it is the only town between Greenwich and Gravesend with an open space riverside frontage.”

She added: “This open space is so highly regarded by many local residents, they have come together to preseerve and safeguard this unique asset.”

Already, the new group has given presentations to Erith Town Forum and Erith and Belvedere Local History Society.

To join, people have to complete a membership form and pay £1 and will get a membership card in return.

Anyone interested in joining can call 01322 332717 or 01322 440199.