An historic pub in Longridge is set to close this month as it undergoes a massive £170,000 refurbishment.

The investment at the Towneley Arms Hotel in Berry Lane is being undertaken by Heineken-owned Star Pubs and Bars, and new licensees - Lancashire-based pub company Blind Tiger Inns - which has other pubs across the county.

It will close for the revamp after last orders on August 13. It will reopen in early September, creating 10 new jobs.

The aim is to transform the site into a top quality pub that caters for the whole community and specialises in sport and entertainment.

The top to bottom overhaul will carefully renovate and repaint the outside of the pub, which dates back to the 1800s.

New signage, lighting and floral displays, as well as café style seating, are some of the refurbishments planned.

The rear garden will also be revamped with a colourful mural, swinging benches and new furniture.

Covered seating will enable the space to be enjoyed year-round, whatever the weather.

While the Towneley Arms will remain a traditional local, an internal makeover will upgrade it thoughout with a stylish contemporary décor.

The new look will incorporate booth seating, timber flooring, designer lighting and wall art. The layout will cater for multiple occasions and groups of customers.

It will feature: a cosy snug; a comfortable lounge; a traditional bar area, and a games room fitted out with a new pool table, darts throws and big screens.

The pub will show all sports and major tournaments and will have Sky Sports, TNT Sports and Amazon, in addition to pay-per-view channels.

Other changes include refurbished toilets and the installation of new dispense equipment in the cellar to ensure consistently perfect pints.

Chris Tulloch, managing director of Blind Tiger Inns, says the aim is to turn the Towneley Arms into “a hub of the community”.

She said: “It will host a range of activities to bring residents together, from quizzes to live acts and fundraisers in support of charities nominated by regulars.

“The pub will also provide meeting space for local organisations and good causes and, with its emphasis on sport, set up teams for darts, pool and other sports.

“The Towneley Arms is beautiful old building and a part of Longridge history. We want to restore it to its former glory as thriving pub that contributes to local life and the town’s great range of independent shops and businesses.

“We’re replacing everything, it will be likely a completely different pub inside."

Star Pubs and Bars’ investment manager, Andy Bowden, added: “We’re delighted to be investing to bring such a prominent pub back to life.

“Chris’ plans for the Towneley Arms are exciting and will give residents a really premium pub with something for everyone.

"It will look fantastic when it’s finished, and should really add to all Longridge has to offer.”