A Yalding pub which was forced to shut having been hit by a fire just weeks after a £1.3million refurbishment has now reopened again.

Fire crews were called out to The Boathouse in Hampstead Lane at 4.30pm on Monday, where the pub and restaurant's kitchen was ablaze.

One of its chefs was taken to hospital after being treated for burns and the venue was forced to close for several days.

The Shepherd Neame pub reopened its doors to customers on Friday afternoon with a slightly reduced menu as work continues to fix the kitchen.

A spokesperson said: "The team were very keen to get back up and running as soon as possible."

The chef, who was taken to Tunbridge Wells Hospital by road following the blaze, is "on the mend", the spokesperson added.

Formerly known as The Anchor, refurbishment of the pub started in January, reopening in May with two managers and 20 full and part time staff.

A custom-built kayak store and boat moorings were also installed so punters could visit the pub via the River Medway.

Kent Fire and Rescue Service was unable to confirm if the cause of the fire had been established.

Kent Police confirmed the blaze was not being treated as suspicious.