A new pub and restaurant will be opening in the town centre on Friday following a £1 million transformation.

Up to 25 full and part-time staff have been taken on to help run The Litten Tree, formerly The Works, in Market Place.

The venue forms one of a chain of pubs with the same name up and down the country, owned by Surrey Free Inns.

A spokesman for the company said: "This is a major investment for the town. We offer food all day, a bar and entertainment with a DJ factor.

"There are different areas, including a lounge area and a conservatory. We will offer a variety of experiences."

Outside the pub will be a spectacular £2,000 floral display which has been designed and installed by national firm Demita.

Mark Palmer, of Demita, said: "We have put in a floral display at the front of the building above the signage and around the entrance. It looks very nice and inviting to people."