Village-run Kent pub the Farriers Arms makes profit

Villagers in Kent who clubbed together to buy their local pub a year ago have said the venue is now making a profit.

The consortium, which comprises 120 people, bought the Farriers Arms in Mersham for £615,000 after it had been abandoned by the previous landlord.

The buyers include three plumbers, four bank managers, four teachers and an accountant.

Villager Lynn Gallagher said: "Every pound that we have put into this I think we have doubled our money."

She added: "We have generated employment and had an effect on the local economy because our chef buys all his meat, fish and vegetables locally."

Another villager, Janet James, said: "For a long time we saw it was going downhill so we thought we would do something about it.

"We were obsessed about it. It's the best thing we have ever done because the camaraderie and co-operation has been fantastic."