Six-figure refurbishment for Northampton pub garden ahead of much-anticipated April reopening

A Northamptonshire pub's garden is undergoing a six-figure refurbishment ahead of the planned reopening for outdoor table service next month.

Extended covered seating areas, patio heaters and more lighting are among the improvements being made to Overstone Manor's grounds from Monday (March 15).

The Sywell pub's general manager, Ross Messinger, insisted the work will be completed in time for the expected reopening in the week of April 12.

He said: "It's quite exciting and we can't wait to welcome everyone back as we all just want a pint and a carvery!"

Hospitality venues will be able to open for outdoor table service from April 12, at the earliest, according to the government's 'roadmap' out of lockdown.

Ross hopes people will be drawn back to Overstone Manor because of its 'huge' garden where families and groups of six or less can spread out among the dozens of tables.

The improvements from Greene King, which owns the pub, were brought forward to be done before the reopening.

The manager said they will help when the weather is cold with heaters and hot with the new pagolas providing shelter, which they did not have much of before.

"The staff are so excited to get back, more so than I thought as I thought they might be in a bit of a routine now," he said.

"We've got a big team of around 40 people and they are really keen to get back to it."

The exact opening date will depend on the weather and if the government pushes back the reopening but Ross hopes it will be before the weekend.

The much-loved daily carvery will return as well as the extensive normal menu, local ales and more - with no 'substantial meal' requirements in sight.

All the covid-safe measures will be in full operation including face coverings for customers and staff, table service and social distancing.

Ross said his team is well-accustomed to them now and believes visitors felt safer at Overstone Manor than at their competitors because of the lengths they go to.

"I really want for our beautiful pub to continue to be the heart of the local community, which encompasses the villages of Sywell, Ecton and Overstone as well as Wellingborough, Moulton and east Northampton," he added.

"As such we're lining up a summer of entertainment, childrens' toys and activity sets in the garden, and our outdoor bar open every day!"