EAST Thurrock MP Stephen Metcalfe recently met with Vicki Gracie, the new publican of the King's Arms in Orsett to discuss their recent £160,000 revamp, as well as government support for pubs and breweries.

Mr Metcalfe, , MP for South Basildon & East Thurrock, was welcomed at the popular village pub by new licensees Vicki and Jade Gracie following its reopening.

The mother and daughter team received a £160,000 joint investment from Heineken-owned Star Pubs & Bars to revamp the pub which has also ensurfed the continuence of five local jobs.

Mr Metcalfe also met with Star's Head of Public Affairs, Josh Green, and the development manager of the pub, Steve Charlton, to discuss Heineken's collaboration with licensees.

Other topics discussed included government support for pubs, business rates relief, lowering alcohol duties, the speed of planning decisions, staffing, and permission for temporary road closures for charity events.

Mr Metcalfe said: "It's great to see the King's Arms open for business again under the capable ownership of a mother and daughter team.

"Vicki and Jade have reopened its doors after extensive refurbishment.

"I will always be a big supporter of our pubs.

"They're an integral part of our culture and need to be safeguarded. The Chancellor's Brexit Pubs Guarantee will have a positive impact but, as always, there is more to do which I will continue to push for."