A popular pub has reopened with a new face behind the bar.

The Crown and Anchor has been closed since the death last month of licensee Les Koncsik, who had been a Shepherd Neame landlord for 46 years.

Earlier this month, the brewery announced that Rosemary Soulsby, 63, will take over from Les.

Rosemary lives in Oare and has been a regular at the Crown and Anchor in the Mall with partner Jim Briggs for more than 10 years.

She said: “The pub is very special to Jim and I, as we have made many friends there over the years.

“It has always remained a very simple and traditional community pub, a friendly place to sit with a drink and talk to people.

“When Les passed away, we wanted to keep it going, and decided to take it on ourselves.”

It is Rosemary’s first time as a licensee and she previously worked as a carer, but her partner Jim has worked in pubs in the past.

She added: “There is a lot to learn, but we have received great support from the brewery and lots of the regulars have already popped in to wish us well and let us know how glad they are.

“Les was so well-known and loved in Faversham, our aim is simply to carry on his legacy and ensure that the Crown and Anchor remains a friendly community pub.”

For more information, click here or phone 01795 532812.