EXCITEMENT is mounting as the Big Lock prepares to reopen in Middlewich.

The new look pub opens in 12 days following major refurbishment work costing almost half-a-million pounds.

General manager Rick Brown said: "I'm very much looking forward to moving into the community and launching the pub. The refurbishment is going well and I cannot wait to open the doors.

"We will have a team of between 16 and 20 and we have almost recruited them all. I am looking forward to welcoming everyone to the pub."

The canalside venue has been transformed into a family and dog friendly village pub with a canalside café called The Little Lock Coffee Shop.

Northwich Guardian:

The Big Lock has been given a £480,000 makeover

The building project is a joint venture between Star Pubs & Bars and new north west based operators, Priory Inns North West.

The first floor has been opened up to create a more spacious open plan bar, snug and dining area with new floor to ceiling glazed sliding doors to allow diners to enjoy the pub’s canalside location.

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Northwich Guardian:

This is how Big Lock family and dog friendly village pub and canalside cafe will look when it re-opens

A new rustic timber clad bar and back bar with room for a wide selection of premium spirits and cocktails will be centre stage.

The interior has been decorated in muted olives and creams with upholstered booth style seating in the snug area and an eclectic mix of wooden and upholstered chairs in the bar and dining areas.

The cafe downstairs will feature a wall of floor to ceiling glazed sliding doors to create a brighter indoor space with seating. It will have its own toilets and will be available to hire for private functions.

The pub was due to open at Easter but the project was delayed due to the coronavirus pandemic.

It is now full steam ahead to instal new furniture and fittings and stock the bar and cafe ready for the opening on Monday, August 3.