A well-known Maidstone pub will be hoping to overcome some recent turbulence when it reopens tomorrow.

The Pilot, in Upper Stone Street, closed unexpectedly at the end of January and owner Harvey’s Brewery cast doubt on the alehouse’s future, saying declining trade made it unlikely it would serve punters again.

But landlady Charlotte Houlihan was pleased to announce last week that negotiations with the Sussex-based brewers had been successful.

The pub’s hours will change in an effort to reverse its recent fortunes and it will now open on Friday and Saturday evenings and during the afternoon on Sunday.

It previously opened from Tuesday until Sunday.

The Pilot will offer real ales, cider, wines and spirits, live music and jam nights, while Sunday lunch will be available but bookings will need to be made.