A PUB has unveiled its new look to the public after being closed for 18 months.

Hundreds of people came to support The Four Horseshoes, in Nursling Street, reopen for business with a new restaurant and re-furbished bar.

The three day relaunch took place between July 11 and July 13 and has meant over 20 full and part time employees, including restaurant and bar staff, have been recruited.

Invited guests were able to enjoy a range of taster samples from the main menu as well as complimentary drinks.

Now under new ownership, the pub has prioritised its dining experience to customers and describes its menu as "great value British pub food with a fine dining twist".

General manager of The Four Horseshoes, Lewis Rosario, said: "It’s been a fantastic start to the new look Four Horseshoes after many months of hard work and preparation.

"We have been delighted with the feedback from everyone who has visited us during the launch and we are now open for business.

"It’s a very exciting time for all involved and we look forward to welcoming customers from all over the area."

Head chef, Lukas Petrokas, joined The Four Horseshoes from The Jetty, part of the Harbour Hotel in Ocean Village.

He said: “I’m looking forward to this new challenge with the freedom that it brings. My team are looking to build up a reputation for cooking good quality, locally sourced affordable food.”

Lewis said: “Lukas is one of the best chefs in the region and he’s looking to make his mark here at The Four Horseshoes.

"It’s a major coup to secure the talents and experience of Lukas who was head sous chef at The Jetty. I’m sure many people who have enjoyed his cooking at that restaurant will want to sample his menu here at The Four Horseshoes.

Lewis added: “We will always welcome customers in for a drink at the bar as well as the restaurant where we are looking to build our reputation.

"It’s been a very busy few months getting ready for the launch and a relief that we are finally underway.”

Nursling resident, Tim Arnold, said: “We’ve been looking forward to the re-launch of The Four Horseshoes for months and we were very impressed. It’s a huge step up from the previous pub with excellent new food in stunningly designed surroundings.”

The Four Horseshoes has approximately 100 covers – 60 in the restaurant and 40 in the garden terrace area with a pub garden to the front.

Restaurant main courses start at £15 and for more information visit fourhorseshoes.co.uk or telephone 02380 735103.