Nearly a quarter of a million pounds has been spent renovating a city centre pub as it prepares to relaunch.

Punters were shocked when the landlord of The Sussex Yeoman, in Guildford Street, Brighton, announced in January they would retire after 18 years, meaning the doors to the beloved boozer would shut for good.

But after months of speculation, The Argus can reveal that the pub will reopen with a new tenant at the helm who has overseen a major revamp to the tune of £230,000.

Matt Short, who runs The Sussex Yeoman, said: “As a proud local myself, I am delighted to have taken on the pub and give it a new lease of life, meaning it can continue to serve the community for years to come.

“The pub will be welcoming to all, be it those wanting a catch-up with friends, to grab a bite to eat, or simply watch the football.

“The pub used to be famous for its Sunday roast and I plan on reinstating that in due course.”

Inside, the kitchen and trading areas have all been refurbished and refitted as well as the private accommodation above the pub.

READ MORE: Brighton pub closes for 'substantial' refurbishment

New seating and benches have been installed along with a newly sanded and varnished bar.

Matt also runs O’Connor’s in Worthing and The Spanish Lady in Saltdean.

He will take on the lease from Greene King pubs, which has around 2,600 in England, Scotland, and Wales.

A spokesman for Greene King said the pub should be open by the end of next week, though a confirmed date has not been set.