A pub is undergoing a major refurbishment, which will create a dozen new jobs.

The Travellers Joy in Downhall Road, Rayleigh, has been closed for the past two weeks to build a brand new bar and areas to enjoy live sports with a brand new sound system and multiple screens, in time for its reopening on Thursday May 24.

The beer garden will also be extended, offering further seating and putting up outdoor lighting.

Rayleigh residents are benefitting from the refurb as 15 new jobs will be created once the pub reopens.

An opening celebration is planned for next Thursday.

Speaking about the work, general manager of The Travellers Joy, Adam Crane, said: “The Travellers Joy is at the heart of the local community, so we want to provide our guests with even better surroundings to enjoy a great selection of drinks and schedule of sporting events throughout the year.

“We’re really excited to get the refurbishment underway, and look forward to welcoming our Rayleigh neighbours to the revamped venue when it officially opens on Thursday 24 May with a pub quiz.

“The weekend is also set to be big, with a series of events to celebrate the opening.

"An evening of live music from local band, Soul Shack, will kick this off on Friday 25 May, where we’d like to invite everyone to come and celebrate with us!

"This will be followed by a screening of the Champions League final on Saturday 26 May, and entertainment, including face painting and a magician, on Sunday 27 May.”