A PUB is due to reopen later this week following a "seven-figure" major refurbishment - creating 20 new jobs in the process.

New owners Greene King say the pub will have a "cosy, country pub" vibe, will be dog-friendly and will also have a completely refurbished wedding venue area.

The Halfway House on Otley Road, Baildon, closed earlier this year when it was sold to the pub operators Greene King by Chameleon Bar & Dining.

It came after shareholders decided they wanted to sell their three remaining pubs which included the Halfway House and two in Lancaster.

At the time, Alistair Arkley, who had been a shareholder and chairman of the company since it was founded by Phil Strong back in 2000, said: “Phil decided to retire a couple of years ago and my colleague Barry Whitehead and I feel that we have reached the stage where we would rather spend the time with our growing number of grandchildren and the time is right to sell the business."

Following the sale, Greene King said it would be looking to “invest considerably”, rebrand the pub and take it to “greater heights”.

Planners approved a number of changes to the building in March and it has now been confirmed that the newly-refurbished pub is to open its doors on Saturday.

The Halfway House now comes under the 140-pub strong 'Chef and Brewer' arm of Greene King.

A Greene King spokesperson told the Telegraph & Argus: "Undergoing a complete refurbishment, to create a quintessentially British, traditional, cosy, country pub, the new surroundings will create a home from home setting, thanks to friendly staff, beautifully decorated interiors, seriously good pub food and expertly chosen drinks ranges.

"The pub will boast a traditional feel, with log burning stoves, timber and stone flooring, plus an interior palette of soft greys and blues.

"The refurbishment will also include new planting, lighting and furniture to enhance exterior spaces, whilst the dog-friendly pub is also perfect for a pit-stop during a walk in the surrounding area.

"The accompanying wedding venue has also been completely refurbished, featuring a refreshed look, along with a private garden."

Esther Hauxwell, general manager at the Halfway House, added: "The venue offers a relaxed and welcoming atmosphere whatever the occasion, so we want to provide our guests with even better surroundings to enjoy our fantastic take on British classic food and carefully selected choice of fine wines and cask ales.

“We’re really excited to be bringing the pub back to the community, and look forward to welcoming our Baildon neighbours to the revamped venue when it officially opens on Saturday, May 11."

The revamped pub will have a new two-course evening set menu for £13.79, served from 4pm Monday to Thursday, which will include old favourites and modern classics like the chef's vegan burger. And on Sundays, a selection of roasts - complete with the trimmings - will be served. For more information and updates about the new-look pub, search Halfway House Baildon on Facebook or visit www.facebook.com/Halfway-House-Baildon-375572363283572