A popular Whitehaven pub has opened its doors after being given a major revamp.

The former Waterfront pub on the town’s harbour has been transformed into a sports bar and has reverted to its old name of The Royal Standard.

It was officially opened by the mayor of Whitehaven, Brian O’Kane, and CEO of Whitehaven Harbour Commissioners, John Baker, on Monday.

Jay Richardson, 71, who lives on The Montana boat at Whitehaven harbour, was the first customer through the doors at 10am.

He said: “It’s brilliant. I always did come in. I’ve got a lot of friends that come.”

The pub is now owned by Admiral Taverns – a national community pub group – while Chloe Rafferty, from Workington, is taking over the day-to-day running of the business as licensee.

Lisa Jennings, area manager for Admiral Taverns, said: “I’d like to say how incredibly proud we are of this refurbishment. I think it’s beautiful.

“We look forward to welcoming all the old and new customers. Everybody will be made to feel welcome.”

Brian O’Kane said: “Exciting times are ahead. It’s nice to see Admiral Taverns moving into Whitehaven into a beautifully refurbished pub that I am sure will be a positive benefit to both visitors and residents of the town.”

John Baker said: “We think Admiral Taverns has done a terrific job. It’s great to see this place revitalised. It’s what we call the hub area of the harbour.

“It’s great to see what Admiral has done. We are looking forward to a great summer of sport. We are delighted to see them as part of the harbour.”

The pub has been given a makeover with a nautical theme and the kitchen has been replaced with an additional seating area.

Multiple screens have been installed which will show sports including football, rugby and boxing, and there is also a pool table and games machines.

The venue has a long history of catering to drinkers and diners and used to hold a mariners’ licence to serve sailors who arrived with the tide at all times of the day and night.

The Royal Standard name had been used for the building from 1847 until it was changed to The Waterfront in 2005.

The pub will now be open every day, 10am until 12.30am Sunday to Thursday, and 10am until 1am, Friday and Saturday.