A PUB is enjoying a surge in trade after its second refurbishment in four years.

The Victoria Inn — also known as Fanny's — in Markland Hill, Heaton, has created a new lounge and outside area and currently employs up to 35 people.

The lounge has folding doors to “allow the outside in” during warm weather, but managers Josh Brabbin and Peter Moore insist Fanny's is by no means a “gastro pub”.

“We serve good quality, locally sourced food,” said Mr Brabbin.

“Favourites include Heaton Swinger Kebabs and our Sharing Platters.” The lounge serves a selection of cocktails, wines and traditional cask ales and there are two new TVs, one of which is the state-of-the-art curved type.

Mr Brabbin admitted that England’s early exit from the World Cup in Brazil had been a blow, but trade has surged since the refurb.

“I think we would all have enjoyed it more if England had a longer run in the competition, but we are now enjoying Wimbledon, serving strawberries and Prosecco,” he said.

The Victoria Inn now has a choice of two areas for functions and offers a choice of hot or cold buffets varying in price.