A popular pub which recently underwent a huge renovation has suddenly shut its doors – just days before Christmas.

Shepherd Neame has confirmed The Duke of Edinburgh, formerly known as Rockin Robin on the Green is temporarily closed while it looks for a new licensee.

The boozer in Heath Road Barming unexpectedly said it would be shutting on Tuesday and cancelling its New Year's Eve party.

In a statement, a spokesman said: “I regret to inform you that as of today The Duke of Edinburgh will be closing.

“I do have the refunds for everyone’s ticket that was brought for the New Year’s party, please message the Facebook page with proof of your tickets to get your money back.

“Again, I am so, so sorry.”

Tommy’s Seafood, which had a pitch on the site, has also been forced to move but will now be operating from the Cherry Tree, in Tonbridge Road, from today (December 22).

Shepherd Neame, which owns the pub, has since confirmed it is looking for new landlords to take over the reins.

Director of tenanted pub operations, Greg Wallis, said: “We can confirm that we are currently recruiting a new licensee to take over The Duke of Edinburgh.

“It is a traditional pub in the heart of Barming, with great potential.”

It is closed temporarily while the brewery searches for new tenants.

The public house was first up for grabs after being advertised online in February, after previous landlords Robin and Michelle Gordon decided to step down.

The couple own the Rockin Robin Brewery and won the Beer of the Year prize at the Taste of Kent Awards in 2019.

In April, the pub was taken on by stepbrothers Rick Bucur and Carlo Podac, who gave the venue a £20,000 revamp.

However, it was then closed again before reopening in June where dozens of locals came out to celebrate with live music and drinks all round.

The building dates back to the 1800s.