The new owner of a high street restaurant has revealed his plans to give it a new lease of life.

Kieron Khory-Davinson has taken on The Hengist, in Aylesford, after it closed down at the end of last year.

The 37-year-old worked as one of the managers at the bar and restaurant more than a decade ago before he left to pursue another career.

Speaking to KentOnline, Kieron, who has worked in hospitality and organised events, said: “I have always loved The Hengist.

“When I was a manager there, I always said I would love to own the place. It was always my dream to take it on if it became available.

“I hope people will fall in love with my dream and vision for it.”

He plans to completely refurbish the 16th-century property while keeping the historical features that make it unique.

He added that the restaurant will still be serving high-quality food but he will be introducing a theatrical cocktail menu with drinks presented in glasses such as a red phone box and hot air balloon.

Some recipes include the Lucky Ducky which comes in a smokey bubble bathtub, The Horsa which comes in a goblet and Love Birds which is presented in a bird cage.

Kieron, who also owns a dog walk business, said: “I think when people come through the door, it will have a completely different feel to it.

“It needs reviving. I want to bring back some of the elegance it once had.

“I want people to walk in and feel special and it be an experience in itself. Everyone seems really excited.”

The Hengist will hopefully be reopened by the beginning of May.

The village establishment closed its doors last year and former owners, David House, who was battling cancer, and his wife Jessica, said it was a hard decision to make.

However, the pair faced criticism for not paying their staff on time with several employees claiming they were owed thousands of pounds in wages, dating back to December.

At the time, they told KentOnline they were doing everything they could to ensure people got paid as soon as possible.

The Hengist was one of four premises under the same ownership alongside The Walnut Tree in Yalding, The Amherst Inn in Sevenoaks, and The Chequers Inn – which is also in Aylesford.

The Chequers Inn and Amherst Inn have since closed down after David, 52, passed away on February 9, following his battle with cancer.

Kieron has no connection with the previous owners.