A PUB is set to close for a “first of its kind” refurbishment.

The Crown in Wychbold will undergo a major makeover which staff say will change what it means to be a community pub.

The renovation comes just months after the arrival of new general manager Kieran McAteer, deputy James Nesbit, and supervisor Jacob Rushgrove.

“It is going to be a huge refurbishment, the first of its kind for this pub in quite a while,” said Mr Rushgrove.

“It will change the scale of what being a community pub is all about.

“We will be hosting quizzes for local, hosting charity nights and are working with groups such as classic car enthusiasts for special events.”

The community pub, on Crown Lane, will be shut for two weeks from May 15.

It will reopen on bank holiday Monday, May 29.

Mr Rushgrove added: “We will be back just in time for summer.

“The inside walls are going to be knocked out, creating more space.

“It is going to be so bright.

“There’s also work taking place in the beer garden, with new benches and bars, as well as the children’s play area so the pub will cater for everybody.”

 Mr McAteer took over the pub, owned by the national chain Marston’s, in January.

His colleague, Mr Rushgrove, says he has completely changed the image of the venue.

“He is an amazing general manager,” he said.

“It didn’t always have the best reputation, but he has changed that.

“He’s brought in new staff, and we are all so excited for it.”

With so much work to do, Mr Rushgrove said they will be wasting no time in getting started.

“We intend to get started straight away,” he said.

“People think the staff will be taking a break but no, we will be training and working hard, ready to hit the ground running when we reopen.”