ipswich: New life will be breathed into a tired-looking pub with a �20,000 renovation project.

Christian Ross and Peter Caley took over the lease of The Inkerman pub in Norwich Road in 2006 and said it needed an image overhaul.

The pair, who were regulars at the pub, took on the business as a labour of love.

Mr Ross said: “Since then we have employed managers to run the pub and with so much regular use, the pub was ready for a revamp.”

The month-long project, which started in mid-October, will see the interior of the pub completely remodelled.

Mr Caley, whose company P Caley Groundworks Ltd is carrying out the work, added: “We are trying to give the pub a comfortable sports bar look that is welcoming to both men and women.

The pub has had a chequered past but Mr Ross and Mr Caley are hoping the installation of CCTV will make it a safer venue.

Mr Caley said: “The CCTV will be linked up with the police via BlackBerry so they can see what’s going on. It’s going to be a completely safe environment.”

The works will include the painting of the interior and exterior, remodelling of the bar, new lighting and furniture.

There will also be four televisions including one in the pub’s purpose-built smoking shelter in the garden.

“We’re going for a completely new look and sound and are hoping to attract a new clientele,” Mr Caley added.

The pub will be officially reopened on Friday, November 18, at 7pm with an Elvis tribute act.

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