A PUB in Winchester has had a nearly £400,000 makeover and is preparing for its grand re-opening.

The Exchange, in Southgate Street, will be open again on Friday, April 28 following a £392,000 investment from the Craft Union Pub Company.

New features include more viewing areas for live sports – inside and out a darts board, a revamped drinks menu and entertainment schedule as well as a fresh look inside designed to be more “inviting and stylish”.

The sports pub, known for its Mars Bar shots, will be hosting a re-launch party on Friday, May 12 and Saturday, May 13 with a raffle, drinks, prizes, DJ and pop idol outfits from 8pm. On Saturday, the staff team will welcome the Town Crier for an evening of live music.

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Operator of the Exchange, Olly Mattinson, said: “Everyone at the Exchange is so pleased with the pub’s new look, and we hope that everyone likes it as much as we do.

"The introduction of the new drinks menu and entertainment offer is exciting, and we cannot wait to start serving guests and have some fun with them. This investment has really enhanced the Exchange, and we cannot wait to see how the future of this wonderful pub unfolds.”

Olly, who has returned to his Winchester roots, has worked in pubs for more than 20 years, ranging from pub companies to independents. Working with his business partner of the past nine years, Liam Murray, the pair will be at the helm of the Exchange.

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The publican continued: “Myself and Liam are so excited to be back down in the south of the UK and in such a great city. We are excited to work with the team at Craft Union to make the Exchange a true community pub in Winchester.

“Liam, the team and I cannot wait to celebrate our wonderful new pub with everyone at our launch party weekend, which we hope to see you all at for two days of fun.”

For more information go to the Exchange’s website at craftunionpubs.com/exchange-winchester or Facebook page at facebook.com/Exchange-Winchester-116740201372040.

Opening hours will be 10am-11pm Monday to Thursday, 10am-12am Friday to Saturday and 10am-10.30pm on Sundays.