The landlord of a pub with some unusual regulars is one step closer to achieving his dream of opening Medway’s first zoo.

Andy Cowell, of the Fenn Bell Inn, Fenn Street, St Mary Hoo, has submitted a planning application to Medway council to obtain a zoo licence.

The dad-of-two used to rescue unwanted animals at his farm in Stoke Road, but when the number reached 200 his wife, Kelly, put her foot down and said no more.

Their neighbours used to knock on the door and ask to see the animals, so Mr Cowell decided to find somewhere people could go to see them. So when the couple found out the Fenn Bell Inn was shutting down, Mr Cowell wrote to Shepherd Neame and they loved the idea.

The couple moved into the 17th century pub two years ago and have been gradually moving the animals in.

They have marmosets, squirrel monkeys, a coati, a south American racoon, kunekune pigs, great grey owls, geese, chickens and parrots.

Mr Cowell said: “Hopefully we’ll be up and running by June. Everything’s been built we’re just waiting for the planning permission, the animals are all moved in - but they’re covered up.

“It’s been a long time coming and we’re all very excited - it will mean everything to us if we get permission.

“It’s community based project for people to come and be able to learn from us.

“We’re hoping its something that Medway will be proud of.”

He said that they are aiming to work with Medway Hedgehog Rescue and local universities and colleges so students can gain experience at the zoo.

Mr Cowell also plans to create a conservation programme for red squirrels.

The planning application includes permission for a miniature railway around the site which Mr Cowell has restored.

He said: “I’d like to say a very big thank you to Paul Wenham and Bob Royce they have been giving their time up to help me. I couldn’t achieve all this without their help.”

Mr Cowell has made all the cages for the animals himself and last year, the Royal Engineers helped to clear another field for the animals.