A new team in charge of a pub once branded “dark and dingy” hope to turn it into Kent’s best sports bar.

The Phoenix in Tufton Street, Ashford, was taken over by Chris Hall last year and he has brought in Smoking Drum Caribbean’s Kieran Mckenzie to run the kitchen.

The duo hope their unique combination of sports coverage on several screens and dishes such as smoky jerk barbecue food will pull in punters.

Asked if they hope to rival the best of what Kent has to offer, Mr Hall said: “Obviously we would always say yes.”

They will be competing against the already established sports bar Matches in Elwick Road.

Mr Mckenzie said: “Matches is a good space but our food is a totally different cuisine and I think that’s what gives us the edge and if we can get half their numbers with people that enjoy the food, we’d all be happy.

“We have a great space and it’s also completely different to what they offer and it’s also more community based. I think it’ll be great once people have another option to go to.”

Mr Mckenzie moved from South London to Ashford five years ago.

For the past year he has been running Smoking Drum Caribbean from his home as a catering company for events such as weddings - but now he feels the time is right to move into a commercial kitchen.

He said: “The kitchen is obviously fantastic and it’s sitting there doing nothing. The fact the new ownership has great plans and a great outlook for the place made me decide that this partnership was right for me.”

When KentOnline’s Secret Drinker visited The Phoenix almost two years ago, he said “the whole place seemed devoid of light, humour or life”.

But pictures show the interior has now been brightened up and Mr Hall, who is originally from Essex, says he might even change the venue’s name as they make a fresh start.

The 43-year-old said: “The last few years have limited options for people and we now hope to deliver a space that people enjoy.

“They can have nice food, a nice drink and talk face to face. You just can’t beat it.”

Mr Hall and Mr Mckenzie say they want to work with the community and provide something different for Ashford.

A soft launch for the new food offering is set for Thursday, March 7.