WORK is now well underway on the refurbishment of a historic Thurrock pub that has been closed for some time but is due to be given a new lease of life when it reopens later this month.

Cliff Rozee and his partner Olivia Reyes have taken over the Wharf on Wharf Road South in Grays and plan a grand reopening of the pub and its restaurant on Friday, 27 August.

Borough mayor Cllr Sue Shinnock is set to cut the ribbon to mark the pub's rebirth at a ceremony at 7pm and a host of events to celebrate the reopening will follow.

Cliff says: "We are currently in the process of refurbishing the inside areas of the venue so that the pub doors can be opened for a new generation in Grays, and over our opening weekend we have a selection of events that will be taking place."

Dates for the diary include:

Friday 27 August 7pm to 12am – Opening Night party with London West End singer Kelly Everitt

Saturday 28 August 8pm to 12am – 80s Fancy Dress Party at The Wharf

Monday 30th August 1pm to 4pm – Afternoon Tea