From the https://www.kentonline.co.uk By Liane Castle, 22 January 2023.

Couple transform The Thirsty Scarecrow into the The Staggered Inn in Dover.

The landlords of a new micropub have turned their love for a night out at their local into their dream business venture.

Husband and wife team Jason and Serena Scoble spent six weeks renovating the "Staggered Inn" in Dover high street to transform it into their ideal venue, promising a cosy and friendly space for punters.

The The Staggered Inn has opened in Dover after a six week renovation project.

The new pub takes over what was previously the "Thirsty Scarecrow" - Britain's first micro-cider house - which announced its closure in September.

Mr Scoble, 53, said: "I wanted a pub that I would like to walk into, with the prices that I would like to pay, with the beer I would like.

"There was a gap there, and an opportunity so we took it.

"Locals are our number one. If they want it, we will get it as long as we can supply it.

"They can come in, have a pint, no TVs, no jukebox, just background music and a decent pub."

Husband and wife team Jason and Serena Scoble are behind the micropub.

Mrs Scoble, 45, added: "Jason has always wanted to have a micropub - he has spent 30 years drinking in pubs and he wanted to see if he could have his own.

"We had a new bar and an extra toilet built. We've aged but we got there in the end.

"We have been really lucky that people have supported us and we hope this is a place everyone can feel comfortable coming into."

The bar - which is now open - is managed by Mr Scoble, a former gas and electrical engineer, while Mrs Scoble works shifts around her full-time job at Dover Christ Church Academy.

Although the bar takes up more of their time, the pair say running the pub "doesn't feel like work" as it's more of a hobby they both enjoy running.

The pair have modelled the space on their ideal pub.

Books, blankets and board games are available.

As well as a selection of beers, ales and ciders, punters can choose from a selection of board games and books to keep them entertained at the dog-friendly venue.

Candles and blankets are available on each of the tables to add to the feeling of home comforts.