Pubgoers have celebrated the reopening of a popular venue.

Shepherd Neame’s Rockin Robin on the Green in Barming welcomed back customers on Friday.

Not only is it now open to the public, but the pub also has a new landlady.

It was announced last week that Sharon Wardell will be taking the reins.

The licensee has run The Royal Albion in Maidstone for more than 17 years.

Sharon says she was approached by the brewery company because of her experience in looking after other pubs, including the The Dog and Gun in Boxley Road.

“It was never my intention to work in a pub,” she explained. “I came out of a career in marketing and had never worked in the industry before.

“I said to myself that I would try it for two years at The Royal Albion – now it’s been 17!

“I definitely have found my calling.”

The historic building in Heath Road dates back to the 1800s and can serve up to 40 people.

Shepherd Neame previously confirmed there are still plans to change the name of the pub to The Duke of Edinburgh, and at present it will continue with the old title.

On Friday, dozens of locals came to celebrate its reopening, which included live music and drinks all round.

Sharon thanked everyone for their support and says she had a “great weekend”.

She added: “I’m really passionate about this place, I want to get it back to what the locals want.

“I want to keep the pub going for them. You don’t want to lose places like these, it’s like a second home in the community.

“They help lonely people as well – you can come in and know a familiar face.”

The landlady says she will be introducing some favourite and classic additions to the pub.

“Being well-known in the town, I asked the people what they wanted,” she added.

“We are bringing back the pool table and jukebox.

“I also plan on adding a suggestion box inside – we might even have events on the green.”

Sharon’s son will be looking after The Royal Albion whilst she dedicates her time to the Barming watering hole.

She adds that there will be “some back and forth”, but plans on being at the Rockin Robin permanently.

The pub is open Tuesday to Thursday, from 12pm to 11pm, Friday to Saturday, from 12pm to midnight and Sundays 12pm to 10pm.

It will be closed on Mondays.