A large number of mourners are expected to pay their respects to the founder of one of Kent’s biggest pub chains at his funeral tomorrow.

Frank Thorley, who founded Thorley Taverns in 1971 and oversaw its expansion across Thanet, died peacefully on March 22.

His funeral will be held at the Holy Trinity Church in Broadstairs tomorrow at 12.30pm.

And in a touching tribute to the popular businessman, his funeral service will be streamed at one of his pubs so punters can pay their respects.

In a statement shared by Thorley Taverns on Facebook, it says the firm and Frank’s family have been “overwhelmed by the kind messages of condolence”.

“We are expecting a large number of family, friends, staff and customers at the funeral service tomorrow and as a result, seating at the church has been allocated by invitation only,” it posted.

“However, the service will be shown live at The Broadstairs Pavilion and we advise people to attend there to avoid disruption.

“Thank you for your kind co-operation.”

About 500 people are expected to visit The Broadstairs Pavilion so punters have been warned it will be busy.

Mr Thorley bought his first pub - The Angel in the City of London - in 1971.

He then quickly acquired four more in the capital before snapping up his first Thanet pub in 1975 - the Charles Dickens in Broadstairs.

His ventures into Kent were spurred on by his family's regular holidays to Thanet, and in 1977 saw him move to Broadstairs permanently.

In 2012 Thorley Taverns sold its last London pub to focus its energies on its Thanet portfolio, and to this day remains a family firm.

Following news of his death, tributes described him as a “true gentleman” and “legend”.

Mr Thorley's daughter, Kim Thorley-Ransom, posted on Facebook, writing: "It is with a very heavy heart that I am letting you know that my dad, Frank Thorley, passed away today.

"He was peaceful and in no pain and didn’t need pain relief.

"Myself, Matt, my sister Tracey, my mum and my brother Gary all spent the day with him today.

"I was extremely privileged to be with my dad, holding his hand cuddling him telling him how much I love him and he has always been the most important special man in my life."

Those attending Frank’s funeral tomorrow have been asked to wear traditional funeral attire.

The family will be attending a private committal after the service.

There will be family flowers only and donations in memory of Frank can be made to Crisis or Pilgrims Hospice, Thanet.