EIGHT new jobs have been created at the Beagle public house at Sproughton, near Ipswich, following a �165,000 refurbishment project.

The work at the pub, which is part of the Vintage Inns company, has included new fitted seating, improved lighting, new carpets and a new colour scheme, and an external makeover including new signage.

The additional jobs include extra sous chefs and front-of-house staff, which new landlord Andy Thompson said were required to serve a private dining area as well as the main inn, with the Beagle having a total of internal 140 covers, plus outdoor seating.

“We’re totally revamping the interior to introduce the Vintage Inns premium dining offering from 6pm, hence the need for more staff,” said Mr Thompsonl.

“And this means we will have a private and designated country dining area within the traditional pub environment, for a more relaxed and refined eating out experience that will set us apart from the normal country inn.”

He added: “The renovations will make a very big difference to the overall mood and ambience, and guests old and new are sure to love it. We’ll have a clean, contemporary look, but it will be a loving and tasteful restoration in keeping with the character of a magnificent old building.

2The rustic charm will still prevail, but we’ll also provide the modern comforts and amenities that guests come to expect. It’s a best of both worlds approach.”