A HOST of sporting personalities offered their support at the official opening of a new £1.6million venue in Portishead.

Olympic gymnast Imogen Cairns, Bristol City midfielder Marvin Elliot and former Robins favourite Scott Murray cut the ribbon at a VIP opening ceremony of Mezze at the White Lion on Thursday.

They were joined for the champagne launch by local dignitaries, other Bristol City stars, comedian Eddie Large, BBC Bristol’s Jemma Cooper, actor Chris Harris and radio presenters Paulina Gillespi and Ian Downs.

Mezze at The White Lion, located in the town’s High Street, is the sixth restaurant in Mezze’s portfolio and is the jewel in its crown following the extensive makeover.

Refurbishment of the historic 1810 inn, which was a former tide mill served by the waters of the Bristol Channel, has given the entrance to the town’s High Street a facelift.

Mezze has given the venue a complete revamp, creating a new heated rooftop terrace, sunken Mediterranean gardens, a cocktail bar, a mezze restaurant and an à la carte restaurant.

Mezze directors Alex Tryfonos and James Brown say they were overwhelmed by the immense support and interest the venue has generated.

Alex said: “The 1,000-year-old White Lion building had seen better days but after careful restoration we have created a venue which Portishead can be proud of for many years to come.”