The new owners of a village pub have submitted a bid to build holiday lets in their garden to “keep the business sustainable”.

Brother-and-sister team Paul Austin and Amy Beaney took over The Crown Inn in Finglesham near Deal last August.

But they say they have had a “difficult time” trying to keep the pub viable with rising bills and supply costs despite working hard to build up the business.

Despite the high demand for the rooms they currently offer, they say it is heartbreaking having to turn away potential guests because of the limitations of the existing accommodation.

The site currently has 10 chalets but only one is a family room, and none accept dogs.

In a bid to change this, they have applied to add four high-end family caravans to the garden lawn at the back of the site to cater for families and those looking for a dog-friendly getaway.

Mr Austin said: “The rooms are good for overnight stays, but they're not so good for longer breaks.

“People would be able to stay in the caravans for up to a week if they want to because they've got the kitchen.

“We have only got one family room at the minute which is quite popular, but when it is fully booked we haven't got room for more families.

“It is a nightmare having to turn people away, especially at this time of year.

“People will be able to bring their dogs with them too, something we know people love doing.

“A friend of mine said to me he stayed somewhere in Devon similar to our place but he chose them because they were dog friendly.

“They are self-catered so we don’t expect people will eat here every day, but they might pop in for a drink.“

Each caravan would be 12ft by 40ft in size, self-catered, wheelchair accessible and feature three bedrooms.

There will also be one parking space per dwelling and a cycle storage area to attract guests hoping to cycle around the Kent countryside.

It is hoped the self-catered caravans will attract more footfall to the village throughout the year and offer a more affordable option to families who might not be able to afford to eat out each night.

If plans are approved, Mr Austin and his sister hope to have the caravans ready for bookings next summer.

The pub in The Street also has a function room in the form of a barn which was previously given permission to be converted into two homes.

However Mr Austin and Ms Beaney want to keep it as an event space to continue hosting weddings and parties for up to 150 guests.

Once the caravans are in place, the owners hope to hire three more members of staff bringing more jobs to the village.