TWO men in a Somerset town have used their spare time over the past year to refurbish their pub.

Jordan Williams and Christopher Neate from The Globe in Somerton have been repainting, redecorating and revamping ready to re-open on April 12.

They have changed furniture, fittings and painted the inside - giving the pub “its character back”.

“Redecorating and upgrading throughout the pub we feel it’s brought a new lease of life to it,” said Jordan.

“We did all the inside late last year during the second lockdown in November.

“We can’t wait to welcome back our regulars as well new customers. Hopefully, it will feel a bit more 'normal' for everyone to come back and enjoy a refreshing beverage.

“Also, we can’t wait to get in the swing of things again and welcome back our team here at the globe.

"It will be nice to see the reaction from our staff as well as customers to our refurbishment as it’s been so long since we’ve seen people.”

The pair have also spent a lot of time refurbishing the pub garden, repainting the shelter, re-upholstering the seats, having a new bench made, along with custom-made barrel tables and heaters to keep customers warm.

“Over the last six months we have spent thousands on our garden but particularly on our courtyard,” added Jordan.

“It has been a struggle in the hospitality industry as a whole and many businesses are also in the same boat.

“The financial impact on us has been tremendous and we have struggled through this time.

“The government has been a help by introducing the furlough scene but is still not covering the cost of a pub to upkeep.

"By being shut for almost a year now, we have lost lots of trade from holiday makers, tourist, events and so on.

“Once we get the green light we are looking at bringing back live bands, which always goes down well, as well as open mic nights.

“Family fun days are something we want to introduce in our new garden as well.

“We are also looking to expand the business as we feel it’s taken a hit last year but we feel the hospitality sector will make a recovery.

“There may be a new pub in the pipeline very soon.”

To find out more visit theglobeinnsomerton.com.