A popular pub which has lain empty for six months is to reopen following a lengthy refurbishment.

The William Harvey, in Church Road, Willesborough, has been taken on by business partners Petra Buckley and Colleen Chapman.

A new kitchen has been fitted and extensive redecoration has been carried out.

Miss Buckley, who currently heads a department in a Canary Wharf-based pension company, says managing the Enterprise Inns-owned pub in Ashford "happened almost by accident".

She said: "We were interested in another pub nearby but the regional manager at Enterprise Inns asked us if we wanted to run it instead.

"To see how much work was required was a bit disheartening but we still saw the potential.

"It's a great location with ample parking.

"We will have something for everyone and really want to make it into a family-friendly destination.

"We are hoping to start sports teams for football, darts and cribbage.

"Following a complete overhaul of the restaurant and decoration, it will not look exactly the same, but have a familiar feel."

Large-scale restoration work is being carried out on the beer garden, with decking being removed or cleaned up, as well as a major landscaping effort and the re-instatement of the pub's children's play area.

The landlords - who are neighbours in Ruckinge - have previous experience of managing Kentish pubs.

The duo will offer traditional pub food alongside an extensive vegan menu, with their vast array of drinks including two cask ales and vegan wine brands.

Live music will also feature with owners promoting 1980s and tribute bands.

The pub, which will open daily from 12pm to 11pm, will relaunch on Friday.

The reopening event, which will run from 6pm, will see a DJ performing, a buffet and the opening of its restaurant for prospective punters to see what it will look like.