The owner of a quirky micropub in a former Victorian toilet in Rayleigh has thanked customers after it was flushed with success in its first weeks.

Craftwerk, in Crown Hill, has been open for just over three weeks and is already proving a hit with customers.

Owner Michelle Reynolds, 40, has been serving up a collection of craft beers hard to source elsewhere to delighted drinkers.

Beer is ordered by the keg and once it is finished, the question of what is next is put to loyal customers.

The pub is providing only one permanent ale from a Southend brewery.

Michelle said: “We offer something very special here, the building is so small it pushes everyone together which forces conversation and offers that warm and friendly atmosphere.

“We are in a beautiful Victorian building, we couldn’t change the exterior due to planning, but we have made the inside very quaint and inviting. Business has been very good so far as well.

“We have around six regulars at the moment, who are coming back for our drink selection which changes all the time, as we only order one keg at a time.

“We are taking a different approach to being a pub, having been involved in the craft beer scene for a long time.

“The smaller building is also more cost efficient to run, it costs less to heat and keep the lights on.”

Michelle, who has been working in hospitality since the age of 14, and even spent a stint in Spain, added that she “has loved the experience” of running the Craftwerk since opening, with the unique premise going down well with punters.

Customer and Rayleigh resident, Frank Exlem said: “There is more option in terms of beers here, that you wouldn’t see elsewhere.

“It does give a bit of nostalgia really and there is a really nice feel, everyone is talking, people are cramped together and are forced to get on.

“Even the price is quite good, most pints are rare and around £5.”