Rise of the 'just good beer' pub in Kent

While traditional pubs are closing at the rate of 18 a week, according to Campaign for Real Ale figures, Kent is about to see a doubling in the number of micropubs.

So far there are seven of the pubs in the county, often set up in former shop premises, with another seven about to open this year.

Landlord of the Butcher's Arms, in Herne, one of the first micropubs in the UK, said their success was down to the formula of: "No music, no TV, no distractions, no food - just good beer and conversation."