Fifteen new jobs are to be created at Banstead pub, the Woodman next week after the business re-opens following a £185,000 refurbishment. The destination pub on Woodmansterne Street which has temporarily closed for an 11 day makeover, is to increase staff members in both front of house and in the kitchen.

Whilst the team of builders and designers freshen up the pub and transform its huge garden, general manager Graham Reed and the staff at the Woodman will be busy maximising their time by boosting customer service skills and product knowledge.

The pub will celebrate its refurbishment with a welcome reception on Friday 19th July for local businesses and regular customers between 5-7pm. Guests can enjoy a complimentary glass of champagne, try out some of the delicious canapés created by the pub’s kitchen team and be wowed by tricks from table magicians. Doors open to the public from 7pm and the evening continues with a barbeque, a mesmerising show from outdoor fire artists and live music from ‘Steve Boyce’ acoustic session and four piece band ‘Watts Cooking’.

The pub, which is owned and operated by Stonegate Pub Company as part of its estate of Classic Inns, will re-open with a sophisticated country pub feel. Open log fires are to be restored, perfect for cosy winter evenings, whilst the interior itself will be altered to create a brighter, open plan space.

Outside the large English country garden for whom regulars flock in the summer months is to become even more enticing with its outside bar, paved barbeque area, outside sofas, wicker chairs and deckchairs.

The pub, which has long been known as a destination for great quality pub food, drinks and warm and welcoming atmosphere, has several events planned throughout the summer including a fortnightly showcasing of live local bands on Fridays and a bouncy castle and barbeque every weekend. General manager Graham Reed and his team are busy preparing for the annual Woodman music festival to be held throughout the bank holiday weekend featuring six local and national bands and solo artists. This event which is expected to attract record numbers this year will be followed by the annual summer fete in early September.

“The team and I look forward to welcoming customers new and old to Woodman after our refurbishment. Our friendly atmosphere and reputation for delicious food speaks for itself but now with an updated new look it will be even more enticing”, added Graham. “We have a busy summer planned and with the scorching weather predicted to stay our garden will be a fantastic oasis for our customers.