by Thom Morris

tmorris@thekmgroup.co.uk

A mysterious press release claiming that former athlete Kriss Akabusi had been invited to open Ashford's new M20 footbridge has been found to be fake.
A company calling itself OJB Enterprises sent an email to the Kentish Express last week announcing that their most “prestigious and acclaimed client” had agreed to open the bridge.
Former top class hurdler Mr Akabusi was said to have signed up to cut the ribbon after receiving a call from Ashford Mayor Matthew French.
Now a motivational speaker, Mr Akabusi was quoted as saying: “I understand the need to bring communities together.

“Matthew French contacted me and explained about the delays and how he would like to liven the mood of Ashford’s inhabitants, before he had even finished his sentence I was already offering my services.
“I just want everyone to know that come rain, come shine, I will be there.”
But Kent County Council said it knew nothing about Mr Akabusi being involved in the bridge-opening ceremony - due to take place later this month - and attempts to contact the PR company proved fruitless, with the telephone number given unobtainable.

The Mayor was unavailable for comment but Ashford council said: "If he wants to come down then lovely, but it’s nothing to do with us.”
Kris Akabusi’s management also confirmed they knew nothing of the strange hoax.
Kriss Akabusi MBE is a former gold medal winning sprint and hurdling athlete who since retiring from the track has worked as a television presenter and motivational speaker, running his own business called The Akabusi Company.

Full story and special feature on the M20 footbridge in the Kentish Express out now.

If you know anything about the hoax give our newsroom a call on 01233 623232 or email kentishexpress@thekmgroup.co.uk