An Ashford taproom which has been shut since the first lockdown is set to reopen next month under new ownership.

The Taproom in Bank Street has been taken over by Boutilliers, a Faversham-based independent brewery.

Director and brewer Drew Harris says the team is aiming to reopen the site by the end of April after the previous incumbents were forced to close due to the pandemic.

"I have grown up in Ashford so the chance to open something here is great for me," he explained.

"When The Taproom opened, it was fantastic for the nightlife – especially for me, because I'm a huge craft beer nerd."

The brewers are subletting The Taproom from new owners SALT Beer Factory, and will be bringing their own branded beer as well as SALT's signature drinks.

There will also be wine, cocktails, and an "innovative" approach to food.

"There are so many fantastic pop-up food places in the area that just don't get the chance to work in a full-blown kitchen," explained Mr Harris, 35.

"With that in mind we've decided to team up with individual companies and go for a quarterly rotation in the kitchen – so every three months, you come in to something completely different.

"It also means that any regulars will have that change rather than just working through the menu and being stuck with the same old thing."

The former Norton Knatchbull school pupil says he wanted to "do his bit" to aid Ashford's nightlife.

"Being in the area as a child, I always had an idea of what Ashford was, if that makes sense," he explained.

"Now, with fantastic places like Valerie's Wine Bar and Matches Sports Bar, once we bring The Taproom back there will be something for every demographic – it's incredibly exciting."

Mr Harris has also come up with a unique way to provide the small amount of capital needed to get The Taproom back up and running as soon as possible.

"We are giving people the option, rather than just fundraising, to purchase their tab before we open," he said.

"You can donate any amount, and we will add an extra 25% on top – with more added bonuses.

"For £500, for example, you get a £625 bar tab and a 5% discount for life."

More details can be found on the GoFundMe page, which has already collected more than £4,500, by clicking here