THE re-opening of a historic south Essex pub has been hailed as “great news” after months of a major refurbishment.

Reports of a permanent closure of The Swan, in Wickford, circulated in January after pictures showed it was boarded up.

However, owners Alma Mays Pubs later insisted the venue, which is believed to date back to 1925, underwent a transformation and will be re-opening as its original name The White Swan.

On July 11, it was announced in a Facebook post that it will once again throw open its doors on July 28.

Reacting to the “exciting” news, Eunice Brockman, Wickford North ward councillor, said: “I think it’s great news for the town, and let’s hope it’s going to be very successful in the future.

“A pub is always offering entertainment, and it provides a nice place for Wickford residents and beyond to go.

“I wish the owners of The White Swan all the very best of luck for their opening on July 28 and for the future.”

As soon as the announcement was released, the pub’s neighbour Cosmin Chirvasuta was “very happy” to hear it was re-opening as he felt a “little upset” when the pub appeared boarded up.

Others joined Mr Chirvasuta in expressing their joy, with one commenting on the Facebook post: “Fantastic news and [I] wish you all the best. It’s up to us now. Use it or lose it.”

Another wrote: “Fabulous – wishing you all the very best and look forward to lunching/dining with you.”

And a third penned: “Great news, [I’m] looking forward to coming in and seeing the new place.”

It comes as delays with deliveries forced the owners to abandon its original May grand opening.

Since March, builders have torn up the brown carpet, ripped out the tired copper bar top and the “horrible” old shelves.

Now, they have installed a new bar with a laminated oak top, glossy dark green metro wall tiles and a copper-plated beer pump and new furniture.

There is also set to be a “secret snug garden” area for summertime drinking.

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