A couple who dreamed of turning their pub into a zoo have finally been granted their licence.

Andy and Kelly Cowell took over The Fenn Bell Inn, St Mary Hoo, in December 2014 after running out of room for their rescued animals on their farm in Stoke Road.

The couple hoped to transformed the 17th century inn into a safe haven for unwanted animals of all shapes and sizes.

And today, after almost three years of hard work, they were granted their zoo licence by Medway Council.

Posting on their Facebook page, the couple said: “It’s been two years and eight months since we took over the Fenn Bell and along the way we have had some dark days. “Our plan was to create a home for us and our animals and be able to share it with you guys.

“Looking back with hindsight we had no idea how hard that this would be and the challenge that faced us.

“I am pleased to say that today we have done it. With Medway Councils support our zoo licence has been granted.

“It’s very difficult to put into words what this means to us. I have pushed and pushed to achieve this and driven my family and best friends to the boundaries of insanity, the love and support they have shown me has been amazing and I will never be able to repay them.

"We’re not a boozer with animals, we are now a zoo" - Andy Cowell

“For me it’s a dream come true to finally get the big rubber stamp, this makes all of the hard work and effort official.

“We’re not a boozer with animals, we are now a zoo.”

Moving forward, they will be able to trade as a zoo but still have more work to do including opening up for school visits and working with other zoos on existing conservation projects.

An extension on the pub with a large dining area, disabled toilets and baby changing rooms, is in the pipeline.

Mr Cowell added: “I see today as the beginning of exciting times at The Fenn Bell, so let’s enjoy today and with all of you guys supporting us we will meet all of the challenges head on.

“I believe this is a chance to create a place for families to build memories for the future and somewhere that Medway can be proud of.”