Basildon Wetherspoon town centre pub officially opened by MP

Richard Holden, MP for Basildon and Billericay, slashed the ribbon this morning to officially unveil the new Sigered, King of Essex pub on East Walk.

Promised since the former Moon on the Square pub closed its doors in September 2022, ahead of demolition for almost 500 homes, the Wetherspoon venue has been years in the making with work finally starting in May this year.

Happy - Punters enjoy the first few pints at the King of Essex(Image: Newsquest)

The venue is named after the last king of Essex and has replaced the former town centre Poundworld store.

Almost 70 jobs have been created through the pub’s opening, most of which have been filled by Basildon residents.

The team will be led by experienced pub manager Gabby Alefounder. This is the fourth Wetherspoon pub she has run, most recently managing beloved local Colley Rowe Inn in Romford.

Team - Almost 70 staff have been hired for the King of Essex(Image: Newsquest)

The 31-year-old said yesterday: "Being a big pub, I know it’s going to be challenging at times, but no one's cried yet and everyone is on board and so excited for this - it's about time Basildon had a good Spoons.

"We're all excited and nervous for the opening, it's going to be very busy and I think it's going to be brilliant."

Busy - Residents have been eager to see the new pub(Image: Newsquest)

The pub is decorated in a tapestry design featuring iconic landmarks in and around Basildon, including the Basildon sign, Hadleigh Castle and more.

More recruitment is set to open up during the build up to Christmas, a busy time for Wetherspoon pubs.