A SEAFRONT pub believed to be one the smallest in Essex is welcoming back regulars after a £13,000 revamp following its shock closure.

The Cornucopia, in Marine Parade, Southend has been given a fresh look with new decor, future and flooring after it initially closed in July.

The pub has been purchased by John Remblance, who owns a series of arcades on the seafront, with bosses aiming to create a family vibe.

Exotic dancing, which the venue has previously hosted, has been scrapped.

A business spokesman said: “Business and trade has been going good but we do have the added pressure of increasing bills and costs.

“We closed for a short time to fresh up the pub to give customers a fresh new environment. We have redecorated and painted it inside and out, changed the flooring, and added new furniture inside and outside the pub.

“We want that nice family vibe on that corner and it’s good to get it back, it’s one of the smallest pubs in Essex.

“It’s been here a very long time and is so well known too.

Families are very welcome.”

There had been mystery around the pub after it initially closed, and workmen were seen on the site.

However, residents are over the moon it has re-opened and undergone a major revamp.

The business spokesman added: “Trade has been good so far but it could always be better. We are coming to the end of the season and facing rising costs too. We are getting a mix of new customers and regulars coming back too.

“We are having good feedback from our customers and are planning some DJ nights on Fridays and Saturdays.”

Carole Mulroney, Lib Dem councillor for tourism, welcomed the business throwing back open its doors to customers.

She said: “It’s known for being one of the smallest pubs around and I do think it needed a bit of a revamp. It’s good to see it back open.

“Nobody wants to see an empty business or building and especially one this old. It was in a bit of state of disrepair so good on them for doing it up.”