CUSTOMERS who were left high and dry in August after the temporary closure of a popular Portishead pub, are celebrating its re-opening.

The Albion in Bristol Road closed its doors on July 31 to allow contractors to carry out major refurbishment work.

Not only have they completely redecorated the hostelry, but building work to move toilets and the removal of dividing balustrades has created extra space in the venue and brought elevated areas to ground level.

General managers Andrew and Dawn Simmonite say they are pleased with the results which have received the thumbs-up from their regular customers.

Andrew said: “The new look Albion with much more space offers more flexibility for our dining and drinking guests.

“Designated food areas can now accommodate larger parties and we have a separate conference room available.”

New food specials, additional guest ales and more wines and champagnes are now available and the outside area has been improved to offer more comfortable, al fresco dining. The Albion is now also more wheelchair user friendly.

The closure of the pub for several weeks came as a blow to customers as the number of traditional food and drink pubs in the town has declined in recent months.

The White Lion in High Street and the Royal Oak on West Hill both closed without warning earlier in the year and as yet there are no signs of them reopening.