Speculation has grown over the future of a town pub after it loses its new landlords.

The Angel, in Rainham, was taken over by David Carroll and partner Emma Smith in December who had high hopes of bringing the boozer back to life.

The pair moved in and spruced up the place with a lick of paint, sofas, a fireplace and introduced food for the first time in its history.

Speaking in February, David said: “We want to give it some life again. It looked so tired, it did not feel welcoming. We want it to feel comfortable and we want families coming in.

"We want to be a home away from home. A public house is just that, a place for people to feel safe and comfortable.

"Our main focus is to deliver quality, to be the best. We want to be that little step above anyone else.

"Pubs have changed so much, we want to give it a refresh but keep that personal touch you do not find as much any more."

The boozer, owned by pub company Admiral Taverns, was expecting a major refurbishment at the end of March following a £185,000 cash injection from the brewery.

It was set to be shut for four weeks to allow the entire place to be gutted and re-fitted but plans have now been pushed back.

A spokesman for Admiral Taverns confirmed it is looking for a new landlord to take over The Angel, on the corner of Station Road and Lower Rainham Road.

They said: “At Admiral we are strong believers in the importance of community pubs and our focus is always on helping our tenants to run sustainable pub businesses.

“Inevitably there are instances where we have to part ways with our licensees, however, we are currently recruiting for a passionate new tenant to take over The Angel to ensure it can remain at the heart of the community.

“Anyone interested should please get in touch and call 01244 321171.”

Mr Carroll and Ms Smith took over The Angel after former landlord Stuart Hart came to the end of his tenancy.

David Carroll has been contacted for comment.