Owners of a popular pub in Southend celebrated one year since they took over, as the venue was rebranded to it's original name.
A refurbishment brought a fresh look to what was called The Cow and Telescope, and a relaunch as The Sutton was marked with a successful opening party on Wednesday night.
The much-loved establishment on Southchurch Road in Southend city centre was taken over last year by couple Paul Kelly and Tan Carter, who have brought a fresh feel to the place.
Wednesday's celebrations were welcomed by excited regulars, and Southend councillor Martin Berry cut the ribbon on the front door to officially mark the reopening.
"It went really well," Paul said. "We are very happy about it and it was a fantastic event"
A new staff member was a surprise addition too. The Sutton Silverback has joined as the pub's new mascot, who will make appearances around town and join door staff on weekend band nights - although at a whopping eight feet and two inches tall, he tires easily so may not be doing the longer shifts.
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"Southend United have a mascot so we wanted one too," Paul said.
Tan said the name change has already been "extremely popular" with customers.
The couple have a long history in hospitality and have previously run several venues together, including the Wheatsheaf in Chelmsford.
The pub's exterior has been repainted and the garden has been refreshed, and the inside of The Sutton now features a music theme, including a Beatles piano.
Friend Kev Swosh performed a very well-received UB40 tribute act, and Paul said the night was made extra special by meeting Ted, who ran the pub in the 1980s when it was called Debonairs and brought along a photo album to share with the current owners.
The Sutton will also launch a new menu, serving food for the first time in ten years which was trialled with an open buffet.
Tan said customers were excited and that the couple will be bringing "a fresh new look with a fresh new name."
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