A BELOVED Westcliff pub was packed with customers on its fantastic first night under new management, after being closed for more than eight months. 

The Cricketers, in London Road, welcomed back residents – both familiar faces and new customers – as it held a grand opening on Thursday night. 

Echo: Under new management - the Cricketers reopened following months of refurbishment.Under new management - the Cricketers reopened following months of refurbishment. (Image: Ben Shahrabi)

Annie Bush, former owner of Annie’s Attic in Southend city centre, has taken the reins alongside her “partner in crime” Karl Hopkins. 

Both were overjoyed at the success of the reopening. They are hoping for a bright future at the pub, after its extensive refurbishment, where they plan to offer live music and top-notch food. 

Echo: Beer is flowing once again at the Cricketers.Beer is flowing once again at the Cricketers. (Image: Ben Shahrabi)

Annie said: “It’s great to see a lot of old faces coming back to the Cricketers. The support is lovely.

“We want to bring back live bands. From rock to ska, we want something for everyone.”

The pub has been closed since June when the Corallini family “handed back the keys” after ten years.

Annie’s co-manager and “best friend” Karl, 38, was “really pleased” with the turnout on the first night.

He said: “There’s a really good atmosphere. It’s been a successful pub in the past. It’s a leap of faith but, with Annie’s expertise, I’m confident we can make it successful again.”

DJ Ian Homes was a regular fixture at Annie’s Attic, where he provided music for the night club’s soul nights. He has brought his decks to the Cricketers, where he plans to hold music nights “to suit all tastes”.

Echo: DJ Ian Holmes is keen to bring punters through the doors.DJ Ian Holmes is keen to bring punters through the doors. (Image: Ben Shahrabi)

He said: “We’re making a fresh start. I’m confident it can be a real success.

“With the economy the way it is, you’ve got to provide something people really want to go to.

“My job is to get people through those doors. Any requests will get played, as long as they’re appropriate.”

Meanwhile, experienced chef Dan Binge is “excited” to bring “something unique” to the pub’s kitchen.

He said: “We hope to create a very eclectic menu. Every month, we plan to offer a different international cuisine, like Indian, French or even native American. It will be absolutely amazing, as Annie’s given us so much freedom. This is the start of something different.”

Musicians are encouraged to contact the Gray and Sons pub over the next couple of weeks to arrange performances.