A High Street pub is set to reopen its doors under new management this week following a period of refurbishment.

The George in Hadleigh has been taken over by Joanna MacDonagh, who also runs The Flying Guardsman café in the town. 

It marks an "exciting" new venture for the Ms MacDonagh, and an opportunity that she couldn't resist. 

"With The Guardsman I got it to where I needed it, like it and visioned. I have got a really good team down there," she said.

"It is just that buzz of something new and another challenge. I used to come to The George when we first moved here and it was always so lively.

"I saw this with The George and thought 'if it's meant to be, I'll get it.'"

The pub has undergone a period of refurbishment ahead of its reopeningThe pub has undergone a period of refurbishment ahead of its reopening (Image: The George) The pub has undergone a period of refurbishment after brewer Greene King was given the go-ahead to make a number of changes to the pub. 

A new kitchen has been fitted, while the bar has also been given a fresh look.

Greene King described the works as a "significant refurbishment" as it looked to transform the pub for the local community

"It's going well. We're just sorting the final bits now," continued Ms MacDonagh.

Ms MacDonagh wants to create a family atmosphere at the pub, and will use things which have worked at her café to try and replicate them at her new establishment. 

She added: "I just want it to feel like it is for everyone, it doesn't matter how old or what age." 

The pub will reopen its doors on Thursday, November 28.

They will host a community fun day on Saturday, November 30. There will be face painting and balloon modelling in the afternoon, while there will also be live music in the evening.