A POPULAR Chester pub has reopened following a major refurbishment.

The Saughall Arms – previously the Egerton Arms – on Hermitage Road welcomed customers on Saturday (August 3) with a ‘Family Fun Day’ followed by an evening of live music.

The pub’s new team, led by manager Nigel Yee, say the venue has undergone “extensive refurbishment” inside and outside, with a repainted and updated frontage and a new beer garden area to the rear, as well as a redesigned bar and seating area.

There are also plans to launch a new food menu, which will be available in the coming weeks.

The new team at the Saughall Arms, led by Nigel Yee (centre).The new team at the Saughall Arms, led by Nigel Yee (centre). (Image: Saughall Arms)

Band Anti-Cool provided music throughout Saturday afternoon, and there was also a bouncy castle, ice cream van, face painting, glitter tattoos and Coffee King food truck.

Musician Robbie Donaldson then took over live music duties from 5.30pm.

Previously part of the Stonegate Group, the pub is now part of the Gastro Taverns group which own six pubs across North Wales and the Northwest.

The Saughall Arms said of the opening weekend: “The overall reaction was positive - the feedback we received from customers and locals was that they were thrilled to have a community pub that is welcoming to families, all age groups, dog owners and the community as a whole, as well as adopting a zero tolerance stance towards any and all forms of antisocial behaviour.

"We have already built a relationship with the local PCSO’s who are supporting the direction of the site to ensure a safe and welcoming environment for all.

"The beer garden was greatly received. As was the fact that the site will soon offer food in the coming weeks."