There's a new landlord at an old pub.

Fraser Pearson has taken charge of the Shepherd Neame ale-house and hotel, The Dog and Bear in Lenham.

Mr Pearson, 48, has worked in hospitality since his early 20s.

He grew up in Rochester and was previously at Maidstone's Chiltern Hundreds and most recently at The White Lion in Tenterden.

The father-of-three said: “I first began working in pubs as a part-time job when I was at university in Coventry.

"I studied electronics and telecommunications and intended to become an engineer, but after I finished my degree I realised that I wanted to continue working in the hospitality trade."

The father of three said: "I’m an outgoing person and I particularly love the social aspect of working in pubs, being part of a team and meeting new people every day. I trained with Whitbread, and went on to manage a number of premium pubs and hotels around the South East.”

The Dog and Bear was built in 1602 and holds a commanding position on the village square. It retains many historic features but now also offers 24 en-suite bedrooms and is a popular stop-over for tourists heading to nearby Leeds Castle.

Mr Pearson said: "The Dog and Bear is such a beautiful site with a fascinating history.

"I was thrilled to be chosen to take over from Brian and Anne Hogg, who retired after managing the premises for 15 years.

"They were incredibly well-known in Lenham so I was aware that I had big shoes to fill, but all the local residents and businesses have been very welcoming.”

The Dog and Bear Hotel is open every day, and serves food from 12 noon to 3pm and 5pm to 9pm on Monday to Friday, and from 12 noon to 9pm on Saturday and 12 noon to 8pm on Sunday.

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