The historic Plough Inn in Ipswich has reopened to the public after a major £280,000 refurbishment.

Ipswich Star: The Plough Inn in Ipswich has reopened. Picture: JASON BYEThe Plough Inn in Ipswich has reopened. Picture: JASON BYE (Image: � Jason Bye t: 0044 (0) 7966 173 930 e: mail@jasonbye.com w: http://www.jasonbye.com)

Investment by the owners, Stonegate Pub Company, includes developing its community links, entertainment and the food and drink offering in the pub, in the heart of the town and next to the Old Cattle Market bus station.

There are familiar faces still, including the managers of 19 years, Paul and Michelle Bird, behind the bar.

The popular community pub is introducing a fresh new look with historic embellishments, a modernised bar area and an overhauled beer garden complete with astro turf and uninterrupted sports viewing.

Ipswich Star: Adam Sellars, Mark Searsby and Anthony Jenkins at the reopening of The Plough Inn in Ipswich. Picture: JASON BYEAdam Sellars, Mark Searsby and Anthony Jenkins at the reopening of The Plough Inn in Ipswich. Picture: JASON BYE (Image: � Jason Bye t: 0044 (0) 7966 173 930 e: mail@jasonbye.com w: http://www.jasonbye.com)

All was revealed at a VIP event on Friday, June 16, with menu tasters, a meet the brewer with Lilley’s cider handing out samples of their new flavours and Adnam’s brewery explaining tricks of the craft beer revolution trade.

“We pride ourselves on being a great community pub and want to give something back to our locals. A bit of TLC is exactly what we need, its brand new and ready for the summer sunshine,” Mr Bird said.

With three upgraded HD sports screens, the pub now has nine screens and a projector so there is plenty of room for sports fans to unite.

Summer socialising wouldn’t be complete without a brand new food menu, with 100 variations of dishes including traditional pub favourites like pie and mash to extensive vegetarian options like the vegetable panang curry.

Opening times have extended now opening at 9am everyday.

Drinks haven’t been left out either with an expansion of craft beer including Adnams dry hop and Blue Moon. Tutti Fruity and Cherry blush cocktail bowls are set for a summer sell out as the warmer months will entice locals to the revamped beer garden complete with decking and a brand new seating area.