The family behind a successful South East London pet store have now set up shop on Herne Bay pier in Kent.

Joe Pavey, whose daughter Lauren owns and runs the Doghouse in Eltham, decided to undertake the new venture after taking voluntary redundancy in the casino industry.

The Doghouse by the Sea was opened at the beginning of the month and is already doing a great trade with local residents and holidaymakers.

“My daughter Lauren and wife Susan said I needed to do something to stop me going mad. Lauren saw that you could rent huts on the pier and suggested opening a pet shop because of the large number of dog owners in Herne Bay.”

The Doghouse by the Sea was officially opened by actor Gabriel Vick, who was on tour with Little Miss Sunshine.