Former Medway Business Award winners have taken over a popular restaurant and have plans for a new fine dining experience.

The new owners of The Barn in Rainham are Chris and Caroline Webster, directors of building, refurbishment and maintenance firm DCB (Kent) Limited.

The couple sold their shareholding in DCB last April but remain at the helm of the company.

Teaming up with friends Saif Islam and Mohammed Ali, they plan to open a fine-dining Indian restaurant later this summer, following a full refurbishment of the 17th century building in Lower Rainham Road.

Speaking about how they came to buy the restaurant, Chris said: “We have a passion for great food and restaurants with character, we love our hometown of Rainham, and wanted to be a part of something new and exciting combining both.

“The Barn was for sale for a few months before we realised, but once it caught our attention there was no turning back.

“It is such a quirky building, oozing with character. We have enjoyed great evenings here over the years. Caroline even had her hen night here 25 years ago.”

Chris and Caroline have benefited from the support and enthusiasm of outgoing Barn owners Damon and Sarah Dalmedo.

The couple ran The Barn for 15 years before closing in April. They held their first pop-up restaurant at The Oast in Rainham on Friday and are launching an outside catering business.

Caroline said: “Damon and Sarah have been so helpful, and are as excited about the future of The Barn as we are.

“They have done a great job here these past 15 years, and it is our goal to continue the reputation the restaurant has for providing a unique and special dining experience.

“We have a lot of work to do before we open, but it will be beautiful when it does.

“Our friends and restaurant managers Saif and Ali will provide a first class service for guests. Between them, they have so much experience.”

Work has started on the refurbishment, and it is hoped the new restuaramt – the name of which is being kept under wraps – will be open late July.

Firms are also being encouraged to enter this year's Medway Business Awards.