“At first the pub element was going to be a small part of our business plan for the premises, but the micro pub just grew bigger and bigger,” laughs Lori.

“Initially, we were not serving food, but then lockdown hit and we started serving takeaways. This meant we could keep staff onandalsobranchoutintofood.”

Once lockdown was over, they merged the two sides of the business to create the versatile pub they have today.

The Waeccer is unrecognisable from its former incarnation in Great Wakering. The pub is known for its stylish decor, great food, speciality drinks and a fantastic beer garden with a children’s play area, perfect for families.

“We are from the village and knew the history of the pub well. It had been failing for years and had several owners, but had more recently been known as the slightly dodgy pub at the end of the road,” said Lori.

“We wanted to make something special for the village that respected thehistorical value the building has.”

They serve tasty gastro pub food, such as burgers, sausages, wraps and steak, all from Marsh Butchers Ltd on the Great Wakering High Street.

“We also serve the very best roast dinners you will find in the area ” said Lori. In the short time they have been open they have already climbed into position number seven on TripAdvisor for best restaurants in the Southend On Sea area.

“We have worked hard to create something special. Somewhere which is lovely to spend time in. A relaxing atmosphere with amazing quality drinks and food,” said Lori.

“We put lots of thought into our gins, beer selection and wine list to make sure there is something to suit every taste.”

Speciality drinks include gins and delicious hand-made cocktails and more. They have monthly karaoke and quiz nights plus live music events and are available for private hire too

“Being proud villagers ourselves, we wanted to create something we could be proud of, we think we have done justthat.”

The Waeccer is located at 23 Great Wakering High Street. For more, visit www.thewaeccer.co.uk, on facebook.com/ TheWaeccer Instagram @ TheWaeccer