A LANDMARK pub has reopened following a refurbishment project with a new management company.
As previously reported by the Guardian, the Newmarket pub closed in mid-July following a dispute between Trust Inns and the previous tenants.
After the previous tenants moved onto another venue, Luxe Hospitality Group was named as the new operators of the boozer, with aims to improve the pub's reputation ahead of Earlestown's incoming regeneration project.
With the new operators keeping the Newmarket closed while they carried out internal works, the Market Street venue was reopened by the Mayor of St Helens on Saturday, August 31.
With the mayor, local councillors and residents eager to support the Newmarket and see its improvements, Luxe Hospitality organised a family-friendly event to mark the grand reopening of the pub.
The event included children's mascots, face painters, balloon modelling, as well as live music, karaoke, and a DJ throughout the evening, with many enjoying a bottle of beer or spirits inside the revamped pub.
Due to issues with beer lines and pumps, the pub was unable to serve draught beer at the reopening event, but Luxe bosses have confirmed that this issue will be resolved by this weekend.
The operators have also stated that further internal and external works will be carried out to continue improving the look of the pub.
Further family-friendly events, quiz nights and live music will be planned at the Newmarket in the coming weeks, operators said, with a new pool table and music system also set to be installed.
Daniel Thompson, director and owner of Luxe Hospitality Group, said: "The grand opening went really well.
"People commented on how much better the place was looking, it’s been a big project and works continue internally to continue upgrading.
"External works started on Monday to make repairs and fresh paint and new signage."
Luxe Hospitality Group will also support Ava Marie Foundation and assist with the opening of the Child Bereavement Hub, located on Market Street.
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules here