THE “EXCITED” landlady of a Westcliff pub which shut last year has announced it will finally reopen on Thursday, following “months of hard work”.

Renowned for its live music and food, the Cricketers closed in June last year, when the Corallini family stepped down after ten years. Over the last few months, staff have been working “really hard” to renovate the pub in time to reopen under new management.

Annie Bush, who previously ran Southend city centre music venue “Annie’s Attic”, has taken over the Gray and Sons pub.

She said: “I can’t wait, we’re all really excited for the 'grand opening'.

“The pub can seat 200 people, so I’m really hoping for a full house on Thursday. We’ve worked so hard for it.

Echo: The pub closed last June, and has undergone extensive refurbishment.The pub closed last June, and has undergone extensive refurbishment. (Image: Ben Shahrabi)

“DJ Ian Holmes, who people might remember from Annie’s Attic, will be playing music for families to enjoy on Thursday, Friday, and Saturday.

“We’ve also got a brand new jukebox, two pool tables and two games machines. We're hoping to set up a pool and darts league eventually.

However, the opening could have been delayed due to an act of vandalism.

Annie added: “Over the weekend, we had one of our windows smashed. We’re so busy with everything else at the moment, so I’m really glad the brewery has stepped in to fix it for us.”

Previously, the Cricketers was renowned as a venue for live bands based in Southend and was celebrated for its food. Landlady Annie is keen to bring both elements back.

"What's special about chef Dan Binge and his team is they've all worked hard to get where they are. They're passionate about their food and want to make a real success of the Cricketers as a restaurant."

While Annie had a hand in the pub's food offering, the menu was largely created by her team of chefs.

She added: "I gave them some ideas, because I wanted the carvery on Sundays and the usual pub classics. They brought in their own ideas."

Alongside traditional IPA battered fish, chips and minted peas, a variety of unique dishes such as Bombay burgers Thai fishcakes are on offer for those wanting to try something different.

Once settled, Annie hopes to welcome live music back to the pub.

Annie added: "First, we need to get in and understand what the crowd wants first, so we'll ask customers directly."

The pub will officially open this Thursday at 7pm.