A waterside venue which has stood empty for more than two years will reopen in the heart of Maidstone.

Work is well under way to transform the River Bar, which stands next to the bridge over the Medway, into a restaurant and bar overlooking the picturesque waterway under the new name of Bridges.

Managers say they will definitely be up and running in time to see the Olympic torch sail past in July.

Co-owners John Buckwell, Michael Schembri and David Savin have joined forces for their first business venture as a trio. Builder Mr Buckwell said he hoped the work could be completed by June, although an opening date was being left fluid.

Planning permission was already in place for the development when they signed on the dotted line at Christmas.

They will be extending at the side next to the crown court to provide a larger kitchen and fencing off the land so that guests can sit outside with their drinks undisturbed by passers-by.

He said the property had been vandalised and damaged during the time it stood empty.