Pub sold by Paul Hollywood's wife set to reopen

A village pub which was run until recently by the wife of TV baker Paul Hollywood is set to reopen under new ownership, despite plans to turn it into a house being approved earlier this year.

The Chequers Inn, in Smarden, Kent, opens its doors again on Wednesday after the family of Melissa Hollywood sold it earlier in November.

The request to redevelop the 600-year-old pub had faced opposition from some residents and a parish council, which feared the loss of a "heritage asset".

Mr Hollywood, who attended a council planning meeting, said in August criticism of his family over the closure had been "unforgivable".

Speaking to BBC South East he said: "The vindictiveness from the locals towards the family who have been here 18 years is unforgivable."

Mr Hollywood, who married the landlady of the Grade II listed pub last September, said: "I have given a substantial amount of money to turn it into what it is now.

"It is a beautiful pub but it is a business that is losing money."

Mrs Hollywood's family posted on Facebook that is was "with heavy heart" that they had sold the pub and called it a "bitter sweet day".

The statement wished the new owners, villagers Simon and Clare Wilding, "every success" and thanked them for their "support through this difficult time".

The family added: "It’s now time to enjoy being the other side of the bar and continuing to be part of The Chequers Inn by supporting it as a customer."

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