LOYAL customers are delighted as a beloved High Street pub has opened its doors following a major ten-day £90,000 renovation.

The Roebuck, on Rayleigh High Street, re-opened yesterday after closing on October 14 for an overhaul of the prominent pub’s customer area and the installation of enhanced bespoke glass rack above the bar.

Brandon Astley, 24, shift manager at the Wetherspoon pub, said everyone on the team was pleased with the refurbishment.

Delighted - Stephanie and Chris TabbittDelighted - Stephanie and Chris Tabbitt (Image: Newsquest)


He said: “A lot of people have had a look around at what’s changed. All the walls have been repainted, we have had some new glass racks and some new light fixtures fitted.

“So far, it’s been quite a positive response. People seem to be quite happy we’re back up and running as was.

“It’s a nice freshen up. Leading up to our busy period in Christmas, hopefully it makes a nice, positive impact to the atmosphere of the pub.”

He added he was hoping the new glass rack will make work easier for the staff behind the bar.

Revamp - friends Alan Townsend and Tony RawlingsRevamp - friends Alan Townsend and Tony Rawlings (Image: Newsquest)

Stephanie Tabbitt and her husband Chris, who visit the pub regularly, were eager to return after it opened its doors again and praised the pub for its fresh look.

Stephanie, 61, said: “It’s nice to have it back. I come every Thursday with friends for coffee. It’s good fun.

“I missed it when it was closed because I had to go somewhere else and it cost three times as much.”

Chris, 62, added: “I’m very happy to have the pub back. I would say I missed it. I think it’s a nice place with a good selection of beers at a reasonable price.”

Tony Rawlings, from Hornchurch, has been a regular at the pub since it opened in 1993 and said it was a great place to meet new people.

He said: “It’s always been popular and kept a nice standard.

“The refurbishment means it’s still a popular pub still as they are putting money into it. I will be sure to return for a few pints at a later date.”

Wetherspoon spokesman Eddie Gershon said the pub firm’s aim is to give its customers and staff the best pub possible, and hoped the investment highlights this.