A restaurant which opened in an empty town centre pub nearly two years ago has closed.

Wills Fish and Grill took over the former Three Gardeners at Angel Corner, Strood.

At the time the new business was welcomed as the historic building had fallen into disrepair and had become an eyesore.

The grade-II listed site had been boarded up since the hostelry closed more than 10 years ago.

It was given listed status because of its architectural interest as an example of a substantial, detached early 18th century town house.

The eatery provided a take-away, delivery and eat-in service selling traditional fish and chips, flame grilled dishes, peri-peri chicken and home-made burgers and pies.

The restaurant's Facebook page said it is "permanently closed" and there was no reply when KentOnline called the landline.

A few doors away, another historic alehouse – the Crispin and Crispianus – which was once frequented by Charles Dickens, is to be turned into a B&B and tea rooms.

The pub, which was ravaged by a fire, was bought at auction for £92,000 in 2012.

The new owner, who does not want to be named, is currently working with a team to convert it into 14 en-suite guest rooms.

Born and bred in the town, he hopes to introduce a theme to honour the great novelist who used to drop in for a tipple on the way back to his home at Gad's Hill, Higham.

Meanwhile, The Prince of Wales, one of the last surviving pubs in the town, which went up for sale in December, has been taken off the market.

Peter and Kathleen Gillard, who are in their 80s and arguably Medway's oldest licensees, decided to call time after 33 years.

The High Street boozer next to the bridge initially had a guide price of £650,000.

Adam Miles, of from Bromley-based estate agents the Acorn Group, said: "It came off our books around April when it was on for £575,000.

"We believe the owner has decided to hold on to it."