A TRADITIONAL country pub has been given a new lease of life, thanks to a whirlwind makeover.

The Cross Keys, in Wanborough, had not seen so much as a lick of paint in more than 14 years and was struggling for business.

But, in October, it was given a makeover from top to bottom in just six days and already the fortunes of the pub have dramatically improved.

Sheila King, 41, of Wroughton, along with her business partner Russell Elsworthy took over the pub on October 1 and has overseen the turnaround.

She said: “So far it’s been really good and the neighbours have been brilliant.

“They have really bought into what we are trying to do here and the feedback we have received has been very positive.

“We opened two weeks ago and had our official launch night on Thursday, to which more than 380 people turned up.”

Sheila and Russell have turned the Cross Keys into a premium pub and restaurant.

During the refurbishment both the front of house and kitchen area were revamped .

There is now a large dining area and the to enable patrons to relax with a drink.

“There aren’t many high-end premium pubs in this area, which is what we are aspiring to,” said Sheila.

“We are going for quality but still offering something which is affordable.

“We try and source as much as possible locally – even the coffee we get comes from Bristol.”

The food is put together by a team of professional chefs and offers everything from stonebaked pizzas to risottos, with everything prepared on the premises.

The highlight of the menu is the unique burgers which Sheila says rival anything which can be found in London’s top restaurants.

The new landlady brings with her more than 20 years experience in the industry, after starting initially training as a chef.

She said: “I had spent seven years working in marketing and was bored with the corporate life.

“Russell and I had always said we wanted to do something like this. We looked around and found this was the perfect opportunity.

“I have really enjoyed it so far and am looking forward to building it up.

“Once this place is up and running we would like to maybe get some more in the area.”