Patrons at a newly refurbished south Essex pub with heaps of history have spoken of their delight following its reopening.

Marc Glenister, 45, from Rayleigh, told the Echo he had been coming to the Rayleigh Lodge, on The Chase, in all its incarnations since he was a child.

He praised the improvements made to the venue, and said it has made the pub a “lot more than it was before”.

Mr Glenister added he was very impressed with the new look and said it was the “best it’s ever been presented”.

He said: “I think it’s really good, I think it’s a great layout. I think they’ve done a really good job. The toilets, the washrooms are much improved, and the service has always been really good.

“The use of the top bar and the restaurant is really good now, it has opened it up a lot more than it was before.

“I’ve been coming since I was a child, it’s changed hands several times, but this is certainly the best it’s ever been presented.

“The food, the décor, it’s all great. I’m really looking forward to the new menu.

“I think it’s a great family public house and restaurant, with great food and great service.”

The refurbished venue features a refreshed bar, new furniture and an expanded dining space.