THERE were no half measures when it came to refurbishing popular Royton pub, the Halfway House.
That is why landlord Vinnie Caira and customers old and new have been toasting the re-opening of the Rochdale Road JW Lees hostelry after its stunning £140,000 makeover.
Business was already booming before the workforce moved in to complete a month-long project, which is why the pub was nominated for the brewery’s newcomer of the year accolade.
“I am exceptionally pleased with the results,” said Vinnie who took over the Halfway House as a JW Lees pub partner less than 12 months ago.
“More importantly, so are the customers and they are the most important people in all this.
“They think what’s been done is fantastic and that’s been borne out by the numbers coming in through the doors.
“There’s a real ‘wow’ factor about the place and long may it continue.
“I said before the refurbishment started it would look amazing and I wasn’t wrong.”
During the four weeks of its closure, the pub enjoyed a complete a makeover including: the demolition of four walls plus the installation of new furniture, lighting, carpets, and toilets.
Externally, the pub’s beer garden has also been upgraded while the entire building has been re-painted with new lighting and signage erected.
With its three chefs and commis chef, the Halfway House has also added to its food menu.
“We still have our pub classics but there are now an additional 25 dishes to tempt our diners,” Vinnie added.
“For those who may only want a drink, we have a full range of beers, wines and spirits including four JW Lees cask ales.”
And with the installation of Sky and BT channels, available on four 50-inch and one 75-inch screens, there is plenty for sports fans to enjoy.
Indeed, as part of the pub’s re-decoration, there is a wide range of football and sport themed photographs and prints.
Some things, however, haven’t changed with a Wednesday night quiz and live entertainment on Saturday.
Despite the success of the project, Vinnie is also boosting trade at his other pub, the Duke of York in Heyside. “We’re just getting ready to do an exterior re-paint, including new lighting and signage, plus a facelift to give the interior a sparkle as well,” he explained.