The thirsty locals of Petts Wood can finally rejoice as a new drinking hole is confirmed for the town.

Former money broker Barry Bridge, 47, moved to the area in 2001 and is opening One Inn the Wood next month – a new ‘micropub’ celebrating all things Kent and south-east London.

A micropub is a small free house that "listens to its customers", mainly serves small-batch tipples, shuns electronic entertainment, and offers traditional pub snacks.

Mr Bridge said his venture will employ these sentiments, serving the county’s best ales, local wines and an award-winning lager from nearby producer Chapel Down, and the likes of Scotch eggs and sausage rolls.

He told News Shopper: “I’m really excited about it – we’re going to be a real alternative in the area, we want to bring something new.

“There’s a real void in between London and rural Kent. There are so many wonderful producers and breweries around and we want to offer that here.

“We want it to be for the locals, and to grow organically and evolve.”

Housed in Petts Wood Road in the site of an old wine bar, building work is ploughing ahead in the hope of opening in time for Whitsun Festival over June 5-9.

And as well as guest beers and food from independent producers, the soon-to-be publican also hinted at the prospect of live music, events, and a “few other surprises”.

Over the Bank Holiday weekend Mr Bridge set up a stall outside the premises with some light refreshments – and a whole barrel of ale – to announce its arrival.

He explained: “The feedback has been great. It looks like we’ve got a lot of interest.

“I wanted to be open by now but these things take time.

“I can’t wait to finally get going – it should be a fantastic addition to Petts Wood.”

Its name comes from Mr Bridge’s memories of his grandfather, who used to run a pub in Sittingbourne and used to ask regulars to put ‘one in the wood’ when they offered to buy him a drink.

Meet Petts Woods' newest landlord...

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