THE boss of a popular village pub has said the site has "a whole new lease of life" after it reopened following a huge six-figure revamp.

The Duke of Wellington in The Street, Hatfield Peverel reopened at the weekend after it was closed for nearly a month.

The pub has undergone major works inside and outside, and says it is aiming to create a "new, welcoming atmosphere for visitors".

It has a newly installed pergola with festoon lighting outside, 65 new covers, and new contemporary décor, in the hopes of creating a "fresh and modern" atmosphere.

The pub’s drinks menu has also been improved, now including three new craft ales, Flint Eye Dry Hopped Lager, Level Head IPA and Beavertown.

The popular food menu remains the same, still including classic dishes, however a new breakfast menu is now available for early bird visitors to enjoy.

The pub’s renovations have also created new job opportunities for residents, taking their employment team from 12 to 29 employees.

Pub manager Karl Henton said: “We have been working hard to renovate the pub with a complete revamp that has given it a whole new lease of life.

“The Duke of Wellington has always been known for its top-tier service, delicious food and cosy environment, this has not changed, the pub has simply received the TLC it deserves."

The pub's launch party took place last Saturday, with lots of entertainment for both new and regular visitors.

This included family-run Essex-based entertainment Party Monsters, magic from Nick Brown and local dance company Sound 4 Sound.

Fun activities for pub-goers will now be hosted each week, including bingo on Monday nights, Poker Tuesdays, quizzes on Wednesdays, senior’s day every Thursday, fish Fridays and Sunday roasts.

The Duke of Wellington will be hosting an adult murder mystery night on August 1.

The pub is open every day from 10am. 

The Duke of Wellington describes itself as a "football-free pub", and prides itself on being "family and dog-friendly".

It also supports charities through site donations, including Helen Rollason Cancer Charity and Farleigh Hospice, whilst working closely with its local parish and football team, Hatfield Peverel Football Club.

For more information, visit greeneking.co.uk/pubs/essex/duke-of-wellington.