A part of a town’s heritage is set to return 101 years after it left the High Street.

The Market House, which was replaced by NatWest in 1923, is coming this summer as a new cafe and bar.

The business first started trading in Tonbridge after the property was built in 1899, under the ownership of electrical engineer Richard Annison.

However, the grocery shop was replaced by the bank six years after the death of his son, Arthur.

The property, which sits on the corner of Castle Street and opposite East Street, remained as a bank until NatWest shut in March last year.

It has remained vacant since and was bought by Mark Richards and his fiancee Kat, for £475,000 in October.

The former consultant plans to reinstate The Market House name, as well as restore some of the building's heritage, like its shop skylight and tiled flooring.

Mark explained: “There is a lot of history in the building.

“RW Annison opened a number of shops at the time, including The Market House. It sold items including groceries and teas before becoming a bank.

“So we're hoping to restore it back in a similar way to what it was before. We're aiming to open in June, although we haven't confirmed a date yet.

“We're currently in the process of taking the building back to its shell and redesigning the likes of its flooring.”

Mr Richards says he hopes to create an energetic and family-friendly eatery with outdoor space seating also part of his plans.

“The aim is to make The Market House a vibrant part of the community where people can enjoy their time without it costing an arm and a leg,” the 50-year-old added.

“It will hopefully have food people enjoy, whether that be brunches or dinner.

“During the week we'll probably be open from early morning until the evening, and then open later on at the weekends.

“We're also in the process of applying for an alcohol and entertainment licence, where we will offer local wines to people.”

Mr Richards is also appealing for help to locate members of the Annison family ahead of the shop's opening.

If you can help, email jharbert@thekmgroup.co.uk