The “rundown” Railway pub in Whittlesey has hopes of becoming a “quality, traditional” venue serving “great food” thanks to a £300,000 refurbishment which will create ten new jobs.

Heineken-owned Star Pubs & Bars and new licensee Simon Bains are carrying out the work – which is expected to start on February 6 with the pub scheduled to reopen in mid March.

Simon, who transformed a pub in Lincolnshire, said: “The Railway has had a rocky road but is full of potential.

“It just needs investment and a tender hand to bring it back to life.

“The plans are amazing and will give the Railway the ‘wow’ factor; it will look like a different pub.”

Outside work will focus on making it “an attractive feature of Whittlesey”.

The building will be repainted and clad in parts whilst the area in front of the pub will be landscaped and new furniture and fencing added.”

Inside the pub will be completely refurbished in a warm traditional style but with contemporary touches. A real fire will be installed. An extension will be built to enable the creation of a new cellar and dining area and the kitchen upgraded.

Simon, who is a trained chef, wants to make The Railway known for its food and the menu will use locally sourced produce wherever possible.

The pub’s new chef, Kerry Howard, is a skilled pastry chef, and homemade cakes and coffee will be served in the afternoons.

Simon will be consulting with customers about events and activities to put on and a section of the pub will be available for use by local groups such as the WI.