The Plough pub in Swalecliffe is reopening tomorrow with a brand-new look.

KentOnline has been given an exclusive peek inside the drinking spot, which has been taken over by Mel Evans after it closed down nine months ago.

The 44-year-old was previously a manager at The Wheatsheaf in Whitstable and worked for eight years at Swalecliffe & Chestfield Community Centre.

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"I've known all the locals for years," she explained.

"They said it would be so nice to have another pub back again - loads of them used to use this pub until last year when it unfortunately started going downhill."

Mel originally hadn't planned to take over The Plough, but made enquiries after it closed last August.

WATCH: A peek inside the drinking spot

"I was just being nosy," said the mum-of-two.

"Then suddenly they asked 'are you interested?' and I thought 'you know what, yeah'.

"When I walked in to view it, it was awful - the carpet was being ripped up, the building was just in a state really.

"But I knew I could make it work. It's a lovely building."

Since signing the deeds a fortnight ago, she and husband Chris have been working hard to transform the pub, alongside owners Enterprise.

"It's been very quick," said Mel. "I said I'll get it turned around as quick as I can, and stand by my word.

"I feel I'm at the right age to be doing this - my kids are old enough - and I just love the life.

"It's going to be a traditional pub - you'll be able to come in, have a chat.

"The pub always had a really good reputation until the last few months before it closed. But customers miss coming in for a drink. Lots live very nearby.

"I've worked here so long, but used to live in Whitstable. To live in Swalecliffe is amazing - the community feel is lovely.

"I've had cards through the door, everyone's been so welcoming - I've never known anything like it."

Mel is keen to get involved in all aspects of the business - from waiting tables to cleaning glasses and pulling pints.

"I won't be hiding," she said. "I've been working in bars for 18 years - I love coming out and having a chat with them all.

"It's good for all the old boys as well - lots are on their own, and will like to pop in, even just for a coffee."

Only the main bar area of the pub will be opening tomorrow - replete with a darts board available for use by local leagues and a jukebox, while pool tables yet to be delivered.

Children will be asked to stay out of the main bar, but will be welcome in the garden and the airy restaurant area - which is due to be up and running in about two months.

"I've got no kitchen at the moment, but I'm thinking having a barbecue during half term," said Mel. "The beer garden's lovely, and when the sun's shining that's exactly what you need.

"When the restaurant opens, the food will all be fresh and home made - I don't want frozen food - just nice traditional carveries, pies, burgers, steaks, fish on Friday.

"A man down the road asked if I'd be interested in hosting curry nights, and I said I'd love it - there's no Indian restaurant in Swalecliffe."

The Plough is opening at 3pm tomorrow (May 18), with a disco starting at 7.30pm. It will then open from 11.30am until 11pm daily except for Sundays, when it will close at 10pm.

Read more: All the latest news from Whitstable