A NEW Darwen pub has launched to a "fantastic" reception after a £800,000 investment.

The Bridgewater, located at the site of the former cinema in Church Street, opened to a full house last week.

Manager Adam Hulme said: "The atmosphere was fantastic on the first night, from the moment the doors opened at 5pm until we stopped serving.

"The combination of contemporary pub food, premium drinks brands, good music and the new mood lighting system has been really well received.

"We were full to capacity all night and the feedback from the customers was excellent."

The Bridgewater is operated by the UK's fastest growing managed pub company, Barracuda Group.