An artisan cafe opened its doors in West Malling after months of painstaking renovation and building work.

The Hungry Guest, which took over the site of the former Mackenzie’s cafe, opened in the High Street in time for Easter.

The venture has been made possible after almost a year of work to restore the building, parts of which date back to the 11th century and some of which are Grade I listed.

A team of architects, specialist restorers and contractors have been working on the project, with much of the work having to be carried out by hand to avoid damage.

It is being headed up by BBC Masterchef 1997 winner, chef and cookery writer, Julie Friend.

She said: “I feel we will be filling a gap in the market in West Malling, while perfectly complementing the other businesses that are already established in the village.

“ For a change I won’t be in the kitchen full-time but you can guarantee I will be casting my beady eye over every plate that is served and my tasting spoon will be working overtime!”

She added: “I am thrilled to be involved with a company like the Hungry Guest whose principles are all about the quality, whether that is in the produce or the service.”

The company, which was recently announced as the UK Delicatessen of the year for 2015, specialises in combining artisan foods and quality everyday supplies with locally sourced, quality goods.

The café features an open plan kitchen so that customers will be able to see the team of chefs at work, family-friendly booths and chesterfield couches on the first floor.