Those of us over a a certain age may remember the early morning chorus of the hum of a float and the clinking of bottles as fresh cold milk was delivered to the doorstep.

The days of the milkman's personal service to households diminished in the1980s with more people grabbing their pinta as part of the weekly supermarket shop.

But two global factors – the pandemic and the need to cut down on our use of plastic packaging – have played keys roles in the welcome return of the milkie.

It's why Twydall entrepreneur Greg Smith is about to embark on his new venture Milkin' Medway, taking on rounds across the Towns.

And it will come in the old-style glass bottles and cardboard carton to reduce the carbon footprint – and will be recycled.

Greg, 25, used to work for the Maidstone-based county dairy Milk and More.

But he decided to leave when the company introduced the no cash or cheque payment policy which he felt alienated the service, popular among more elderly customers.

The former Howard School pupil, who studied business management and has worked in customer services, felt that was a mistake and decided to try and cash in on it.

Greg, a dad of two with another baby on the way, said: "I put it out on Facebook to see if there would be any interest and it just went insane.

"I was honestly overwhelmed with the response and thought I have got to do this.

"People seem to love the old tradition of having their milk delivered and putting the milk money under the doormat."

Within a week, Greg, who is running the business from his home in Eastling Close, had 200 orders and 50 have pre-paid.

He is getting his milk, which includes soya, almond and vegan products, from a dairy in Goudhurst and his fresh eggs from a farm in Upchurch.

He also plans to sell bread and is looking for a local bakery to supply.

The plan is to be up and running from Monday, August 31, setting off on his rounds at 3am .

He will initially be using his car fitted with a refrigerator unit but is considering getting a traditional float.

Greg believes the interest has stemmed from people, especially those shielding, not being able to pop down the road during lockdown for a pint.

He also feels the non use of plastic containers has proved a hit with his clientele.

He said: "I'm really excited and can't wait to get going. I am Medway born and bred and this is for the people of Medway."

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