A MALDON pub has reopened after a £240,000 refurbishment.

The White Horse in High Street was closed for two months to allow for works to be carried out.

This includes changing the shape of the bar, uncovering original wooden floors and new furniture and décor.

Outside the pub’s exterior now has new signwriting and the courtyard has also had a revamp.

Inside the White Horse’s five guestrooms have also undergone refurbishment.

Licensee Jayne Kocinoga took over the inn at the end of April after previous tenants Ray and Darren Walter handed in their notice.

Jayne previously spent ten years as deputy manager for a restaurant in Southend.

She said: “After many years working in the hospitality industry, I felt that it was time to be my own boss, and when I saw that the White Horse was available it seemed the perfect opportunity.

“Maldon is a beautiful town, and the inn is in a great central location.

“I’m really pleased with the inn’s new look and have already received great feedback from customers.”

Since taking on the inn, Jayne has appointed six new full and part-time staff, including head chef Chris Boig, who has introduced a new menu of traditional pub classics using locally sourced produce.

Dignitaries and residents were invited to the launch celebration last week, with the first pint pulled by Chris Harvey, chairman of the Maldon and Dengie branch of the Campaign for Real Ale.

Jonathan Neame, chief executive of Shepherd Neame, which owns the pub, said: “We are delighted with the White Horse’s new look, which has given the inn a contemporary feel while retaining its unique character and atmosphere.

“We are confident that following this investment, the White Horse will go from strength to strength.”

Mr Neame also presented Diane Leggett, a volunteer at the Essex and Herts Air Ambulance Trust, with a cheque for £500.