HOLLYOAKS star Nikki Sanderson was among more than 200 guests at the reopening of a popular Bury pub last weekend.

The Victoria, in Walshaw, threw open its doors to the public last Friday following a £115,000 refurbishment.

Work began on the refurbishment of the pub, in Hall Street, back in January with changes being made to freshen up the bar and restaurant areas.

Four en-suite guest rooms have also been redecorated.

Ms Sanderson, who also played Candice Stowe in Coronation Street, said: “I have been really looking forward to the relaunch of The Victoria Pub. Not only is it my local, it is also a place I enjoy going to for the amazing food, the wonderful atmosphere but most of all, the amazing people, staff and patrons, who I now call friends.”

The work was made possible by a joint investment from Ei Publican Partnerships and publicans, Richard Moore and Lisa Wrigley.

The couple took over the pub last March and have set about turning it into a community hub.

The Mayor of Bury, Cllr Dorothy Gunther, also attended the relaunch, where there was also live music and entertainment from local artists Andrea-Lynette Young, Roy Frankie and magician Jez Mansfield.

The couple already support community events and initiatives, including hosting monthly craft and book clubs, supporting the local church and holding weekly live entertainment nights.

They have also hired chef Lee Fielding, formerly of the Bolholt and Old Mill in Ramsbottom.