A Tunbridge Wells pub has been named regional winner of the Enterprise Community Heroes awards after introducing a number of initiatives which have made it a focal point for families, music and the arts.

Jerome and Colette Mohammed from The Cross Keys have secured £5,000 which they now plan to spend on new equipment to enhance the music offering at the pub.

As well as buying a stage and extra sound equipment for jam nights, the couple also plan to purchase a marquee for community events and invest in soft play equipment for the under 5s.

Over the last 12 months the Cross Keys has provided open mic nights for music, comedy and poetry, providing a place for local talent to practice, showcase and learn.

The pub also provides free space for local community groups, businesses and schools, while school holiday craft activities, hosted musical bumps and NCT classes provide mums and young families with a space to meet.

Jerome said: “We do everything we can to support the community and are always looking for opportunities to help local groups out. We have made numerous donations to local schools and regularly support charity raffles.”

Commenting on the award, enterprise divisional director, Darryl Higgins said: “The publicans and staff at the Cross Keys epitomise what these awards are all about. By supporting good causes and putting local people first they have truly made their pub the hub of the community.”

The Enterprise Community Heroes awards are an ongoing commitment from Enterprise which has earmarked more than £1million over 10 years for the project. Successful initiatives or activities don't have to be big, but they do have to make a positive difference to their community.

The Cross Keys now goes forward to the national finals on Wednesday, October 22 with the winner set to receive a further £5,000 to invest in their local community.