A village pub just outside Worcester is set to reopen following a major refurbishment.

The White Hart, in Fernhill Heath, is preparing for its grand reopening after a £285,000 investment from independent pub company, Punch Pubs & Co.

A new menu, décor and improved seating areas are among the changes patrons will notice when doors reopen next week.

Alongside the refurbishment is the arrival of a new manager, Julie Brannon.

A local herself, Julie is well aware of how important the pub has and will continue to be for the village community.

She said: “It’s fantastic to be able to reopen the pub, the investment has given the pub a new lease of life.

“I’ve got a great established team full of familiar faces and I’m already planning a whole host of events to get a real buzz around the place.”

The pub’s exterior has been transformed with a new colour scheme and signage.

Inside, improvements have been made to seating and dining areas, giving guests a chance to enjoy the new food and drinks menu on offer.

The White Hart will reopen on Tuesday, November 15, just in time for the World Cup and Christmas.

With the festive season already on her mind, Julie has been planning a range of charitable Christmas events.

First up is a community-driven Christmas Fayre in aid of the Alzheimer’s Society on December 2, which will feature stalls showcasing local businesses and a ‘memory bus’ offering information on Alzheimer’s support.

The pub’s new website will also be launching soon, where people will be able to get in their bookings for Christmas dinner.

Sarah Edmunds, senior operations manager at Punch Pub’s & Co who funded the refurbishment, said: “We’re delighted to have been able to complete such a large investment at this pub, we know it’s an integral part of the community and has been missed!

“Our Management Partner, Julie is a perfect match for this pub and will ensure its success for many years to come.”