THE £220,000 revamp of a historic Canvey pub is set to be unveiled this week, paving the way for ten new jobs.

Foodies will be flocking to the Lobster Smack Pub in Haven Road, Canvey on Friday for its official re-launch after undergoing a major refurbishment to bring it into the 21st Century.

Changes include an increased dining space in the main bar and a refurbished upstairs bar complete with pool table and pub games which is to be renamed Drifters Bar.

The pub was popular in the mid-eighteenth century and features in the Charles Dickens novel Great Expectations.

Amy Beach, general manager at the pub, said: “The changes to the pub are staggering. Customers who have been visiting the pub for years won’t recognise it once the makeover is complete.

“Modernised and stylish, the Lobster Smack will be freshly redecorated inside and out to make it lighter and brighter, with new furniture, flooring, artwork and soft furnishings throughout too; but it will still retain all the character and period features that make the Lobster Smack special.”

The revamp will come hand-in-hand with a greater focus on freshly prepared food as well as the introduction of cask ales and a range of four regularly rotating beers, sourced nationally and locally. The pub will be holding an official opening at 5pm on Friday (Feb 7).

Entertainment will be provided a Robbie William tribute act “Maximum Robbie” on Friday and singer Ed Stacey on Saturday. There will be more live music throughout Sunday afternoon as well as a special show from a children’s entertainer.

Ms Beach added: “Now with our stunning refurbishment and focus as a dining pub there is even more reason to visit and we look forward to welcoming customers new and returning to the Lobster Smack.”