A PUB in Shipston is flying high after it was officially opened by MP Nadhim Zahawi following a £40,000 refurbishment

Mr Zahawi raised a glass to The Falcon Inn, in Church Street, which re-opened on May 16 after a substantial two-week redevelopment.

In a major joint investment by licensee Simon Coyle and owners Punch Taverns, the pub now boasts a new look and fresh décor while its five letting rooms have been upgraded.

The pub also has a new menu with all dishes prepared by in-house chefs and ingredients sourced locally.

Mr Zahawi was given a grand a tour of the premises by Mr Coyle and then invited behind the bar to pull a pint.

“Pubs, such as the Falcon, are an important part of the local community, creating local jobs and using local businesses and suppliers," he said.

“I’m delighted to see this investment in Shipston and the results of the refurbishment are fantastic. I wish Simon and the team every success.”

Mr Coyle, who previously managed the pub for m,ore than two years, said that it was important the refurbishment kept its identity and links within the local community.

“I’ve come to know this pub inside out and could always see its potential,” he said. “I believe we have created a great environment for all and that is really paying off with the comments we have received from our customers.

"They love the new décor and I’m starting to see a lot of bookings for over the summer. The food has started to take off, with our Falcon Burger – using my own, secret burger recipes - proving really popular.

“We have had great support from the local residents in launching the Falcon and I hope that the pub can go from strength to strength, spread its wings and fly.”

Stuart Taylor, Punch Taverns’ Partnership Development Manager, added: “We’re delighted to invest in sites such as this.

“Simon and the team have some great plans to deliver a fantastic customer experience and they have our full support."