From the Dover Mercury, Wednesday 31 July, 2019. By Sam Lennon.

Council cash is behind town pub refurbishment

Venue reopens with original name after £10,000 grant boost.

A pub has gone back to its original name after 17 years.

The Elephant and Hind, in Market Square, Dover, is now also under new management.

Since 2002 the premises has changed its face a number of times.

Now it is back as the Elephant and Hind following a council grant.

New Landlord is Harry Richardson who said: “We are delighted to reopen and aim to provide the Market Square and the community with a relaxed and welcoming venue.

“We will be serving locally sourced food, as well as providing a variety of entertainment including live music.

“We would like to thank Dover District Council for its support and are excited to be part of the regeneration of this wonderful town.”

The council awarded the business a £10,000 grant to help with refurbishment costs.

The Elephant and Hind originally opened in October 1964 following the merger of the "Walmer Castle" and "Duchess of Kent" pubs.

Its name was changed to "Bar Ellie" in May 2002 and by the mid-2010s the "Port of Call." Burger Bros took over the venue in 2018 but that has now also been replaced.

DDC’s Town Centre Business Grant Scheme offers sums of up to £10,000 to bring commercial properties back into use. Or up to £1,000 can be given to upgrade or improve the appearance of commercial properties in designated town centre areas in Dover, Deal and Sandwich.

Cllr Stephen Manion, DDC cabinet member for finance said: “This is another great example of how the scheme can help to support local businesses and continue to regenerate our town centres.

“We would encourage anyone who is eligible to apply.”