A PUB is under new management and is set to be transformed in the coming weeks.

The New Chequers is now closed while it undergoes a facelift including new signage and lighting, and an increase in its outdoor space to seat 142 pub-goers.

The transformation of the pub also includes a new patio area at the front while a third of the rear of the pub’s car park is being converted into a courtyard garden.

The pub, in Astwood Road, is also having a new entrance, a new look bar area, while the function room is being overhauled to be able to have functions for up to 80 people. A projector and screen, Wi-Fi and PA system are also being fitted.

Meanwhile two new chefs are being brought in to enable the pub to offer food for the first time, with the menu set to feature pub classics.

Sue and Andy Cadman are the new licensees, having been temporary manager since 2017, with the cost of the £186,000 refurbishment being paid by owners Star Pubs & Bars, run by Heineken.

The pub refurbishment is expected to take four-and-a-half weeks with a reopening planned for Friday, March 22. After reopening, the pub is set to hold bingo nights, a rock and roll disco, quiz and poker nights, a singer on Friday nights and a LGBT disco on Saturdays. There will be also be games like open the box and play your cards right raising funds for local charities.

Mrs Cadman said: “We didn’t know when we took up the temporary job that we would be making the New Chequers our long-term home.

"When we came here we fell in love with the pub and community. We really like the relaxed atmosphere of living in Worcester.

“The pub has a wonderful feel to it and we have some really lovely customers who made us feel welcome from day one. We want people from all backgrounds to have somewhere to go in the day as well as the evening.

“Last year we missed out on the gorgeous summer because of our limited outdoor space. Now thanks to the investment we’ll have an outdoor garden area with a real wow factor.”

Paul Linton, Star Pubs & Bars regional operations director, added: “Sue and Andy are very experienced operators much loved by their regulars.

"The combination of this major investment and their exciting plans for the pub, will create a fantastic local community pub for all to enjoy. Pubs like the New Chequers need this type of investment to meet changing consumer needs, and ensure they continue to play an important role at the hearts of their communities.”

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