Chipping Sodbury pub prepares to reopen next week (From Gazette Series)

The George in Chipping Sodbury will reopen to customers next week

3:00pm Monday 21st January 2013 in News By Alexandra Womack

A PUB in Chipping Sodbury which has been closed since before Christmas will reopen next week.

The George Hotel closed in November when licensee Mike Harrington put the Grade II listed building, the largest pub in the town, on the market.

It was bought by investors Reefe Kenley, Paul Buffery and Bhinder Purewal alongside their accountant Furrokh Billimoria, from Surrey, who have spent the past few weeks refurbishing the building.

“It is such a beautiful building which dates back to 1439,” said Mr Kenley, who has moved to the area. “It just needs some tender loving care.”

At an invite-only preview last week, the town’s civic leaders and publicans were shown the improvements made to the building and what customers can expect when it fully opens on Thursday, January 31.

They also met new managers Paul and Brenda Wilson, who have moved into the pub and come with many years industry experience.

Changes include a newly-decorated bar, a restaurant and heated al fresco dining area, wood-burning stoves throughout and brand new toilets. Future plans include creating a function room and opening bedrooms so The George can offer integrated wedding packages.

The once popular pub had lost many customers and was often completely empty. During its heyday, however, in the noughties it had been known as a late night venue for young revellers and its weekend discos were regularly packed out.

The new owners will not use the late licence already in place and aim to attract more diners and a more upmarket clientele.

The pub will open at 5pm next Thursday.