TV presenter Griff Rhys Jones is starting a whistlestop tour of Kent today in a bid to give us a stronger voice in our communities.

Griff, in his role as president of campaigning group Civic Voice, kicks off his four-day tour of the county in Canterbury.

It comes as Civic Voice publishes results of a survey saying 63% of individuals believe they have no influence when it comes to responding to major changes which affect their area.

The former Alas Smith and Jones star will give a keynote speech today at the Abode hotel in Canterbury at the launch of a publication A Residents' Vision for Canterbury.

The publication hopes to put forward an alternative vision for the future of the city.

Tomorrow he visits Project Motorhouse in Ramsgate to support a campaign to save an historic building and bring it back to use.

"Change is in the air, as local communities take more control over their future" - Griff Rhys Jones

In Faversham on Friday he will visit the Fleur de Lys Heritage Centre and then, on Saturday, he will give a speech to a conference organised by the Kent Federation of Amenity Civic Societies.

Before the visit, Griff said: "Change is in the air, as local communities take more control over their future.

"The civic movement is at the heart of this, with hundreds of local civic societies speaking up for their area.

"We want to play a revitalised role in promoting civic pride and making the places where everyone lives more attractive, enjoyable and distinctive."

He urged the government to listen to the concerns of civic groups and councils.

Laura Sandys, MP for South Thanet and president of the KFAS, said: "We are delighted that Griff Rhys Jones, in his role as president of Civic Voice, is visiting Kent.

"Griff is known as a passionate campaigner and has inspired many across the country to get involved in their local area.

"We hope his visit to Kent helps shine a light on the fantastivc work of civic groups across the region."