The long-awaited reopening of a derelict former hotel and bar in Suffolk is happening today - and the publican has pledged to keep prices low despite increases in alcohol duty.
Beer will be flowing once again at The Dolphin Hotel in Beach Station Road, Felixstowe after John Flett, who also owns the Dooley Inn in Ferry Lane, Felixstowe, took over the running of the property for a second time.
READ MORE: Felixstowe Dolphin Hotel landlord on taking on Suffolk pub
He has been carrying out restoration and refurbishment work to the premises, which has included making changes to the bar and fitting new toilets, while he will also be providing a restaurant and has painted the outside walls.
Once the reopening has happened, Mr Flett will then focus on improving the upstairs accommodation, which will include replacing all the old bedding and furniture in the 13 letting rooms and repairing the leaking roof.
He said: "On the opening night, people can just come along. The prices on the bar and everything are very reasonable for the opening night and for the future."
READ MORE: Suffolk: Dolphin Hotel in Felixstowe set to reopen
He added entertainment would be provided on the day, with the hotel and bar formally opening its doors at 4pm.
And Mr Flett said he would be keeping prices competitive despite the Government introducing a new system which taxes all alcohol based on its strength.
The aim of the new measures is to encourage drinkers to cut back on consumption.
READ MORE: Felixstowe news
Mr Flett said he could offer the prices because he was operating independently and not tied to a pub company, which could have dictated the prices charged.
"I have taken my prices down instead of up. I hope to keep them low because I own the freehold now and I am not tied to anybody else and I am inclined to give people a decent deal," he said.
The pub and hotel, which has stood at the site for 140 years, was put on the market by agents Everard Cole for offers in excess of around £525,000.
It began life in late Victorian times as the Station Hotel, opening opposite Felixstowe Beach Station - now demolished - which in its heyday was the arrival and departure point for thousands of families every summer enjoying a day at the seaside.
It was rebuilt in the 1950s and retained its name until the late 1960s, after the closure of the station, when it became the Dolphin.
READ MORE: Suffolk news
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