It seems Nigel Farage is not the only politician to enjoy a pint.

Dave Naghi, who will be fighting the Faversham and Mid Kent Constituency on behalf of the Liberal Democrats, popped into the Rifle Volunteers in Union Street, Maidstone, to pledge his support for local pubs and brewers.

Mr Naghi, who is also the Maidstone borough councillor for East Ward, has signed the Manifesto for Pubs and Real Ale issued by CAMRA, the Campaign for Real Ale.

CAMRA’s chief executive Tim Page said: “We are delighted that Dave has pledged his support for pubs, breweries and consumers.

“On average, 29 pubs close each week, so it is absolutely vital that our elected representatives recognise and champion the value of these important community assets, and work to protect them.”

CAMRA is urging the next Government to act to ensure that pubs are better protected in the planning system, that large pub companies treat their licensees fairly and that beer duty is set at a level which supports UK brewing.

Cllr Naghi said: “Well-run community pubs play a crucial role in local life and make a huge contribution to the local economy – with each injecting around £80,000 to the local area every year.

“If elected, I will continue to show my support in Parliament.”

The Rifle Volunteers is under new management after former landlords Alan and Wendy Marlowe retired.

In charge now are Matt Bannerman and Gina Keohane, who took over on March 6.

The pair formerly ran The Pilot in Upper Stone Street, Maidstone, and won CAMRA Pub of the Year when they were there. They are hoping to repeat their success at the Rifle Volunteers.

Miss Keohane said: “Our aim is to make it a real ale house, where people come for the beer.

“It’s a very traditional pub - some people say it’s a bit like stepping into a time warp back to the 1960s, but we like it.”

And Mr Naghi’s choice of refreshment? - a pint of Goachers Fine Light Ale.

*The deadline for the declaration of candidates for the General Election is April 9. Those declared so far for the Faversham and Mid Kent Constituency are Michael Desmond (Lab), Peter Edwards-Daem (Ukip), Dave Naghi (Lib Dem); Tim Valentine (Green), and Helen Whatley (Con).