A ROW is brewing over pub chain JD Wetherspoon's choice of name for its new Whitstable pub – The Peter Cushing.

A major conversion of the onetime Oxford cinema and bingo hall in Oxford Street is under way, and on target to open in July.

But despite hopes that the name of the new venue would honour its history, Wetherspoon chairman Tim Martin rubber-stamped the title after rejecting six other suggestions.

Actor Peter Cushing retired to Whitstable in 1959 with his wife Helen.

Whitstable Museum houses a permanent display devoted to his career, while a bench and decking area in Keam's Yard is dedicated to the Hammer Horror movie star and known as Cushing's View.

He even has a table dedicated to him at his favourite eating place, the Tudor Tea Rooms in Harbour Street.

Wetherspoon employed a specialist company to research the town's history, architecture and well-known residents to help them make a title choice.

The rejected names were The New Oxford, The Magic Lantern, The White Post, The Pearl of the Sea, The Oystercatcher and The Bear and Key.

Wetherspoon spokesman Eddie Gershon said it was important to pick a name with long-term relevance to Whitstable and that people could relate to – and Peter Cushing fitted the bill.

Labour ward councillor John Wratten said he had reservations, adding: "If it becomes the place that some people fear it will, it would be an insult to Peter Cushing, but if it's well-converted and managed, it could be a great tribute to him and will help keep his name alive in the town.

"I must admit I have mixed feelings."

Yvonne Gann, of Cromwell Road, whose husband Derek worked on several building projects for the Cushings, disagreed with the choice.

She said: "With due respect, Peter was not a native of Whitstable, and most people refer to the building as the Oxford."

What do you think? Is the name Peter Cushing appropriate, or would you refer to see the title Oxford retained in some way? Write to us at the address on page 23 or e-mail newsdesk. times@KRNmedia.co.uk