AN award-winning pub is set to undergo a six-figure makeover next year.

The Fence Gate Inn, in Wheatley Lane Road, Fence, is currently refurbishing one of its function rooms and toilet blocks.

While that work is expected to be finished next week, a major revamp of the venue’s bar and brasserie will see it close early next year.

Director Keeley Beaumont said work was being done in order to meet customers’ ‘high expectations’.

The pub’s owner, butcher Kevin Berkins, has won numerous accolades for its food, including the Best Sunday Lunch prize at The Observer Food Monthly awards.

Ms Beaumont said: “At the moment we’ve only refurbished the smaller of our two function rooms.

“That has involved completely ripping things out and starting again and should be completed by November 9.

“The toilets have been refurbished too – we definitely have the most glamorous toilets in East Lancashire!”

The restored three-storey building dates from the 17th century when it housed a cotton merchants.

Mr Berkins took over in 1982 and the pub was named Freehold of the Year at The Publican Awards in 2007.

Ms Beaumont said: “In the new year the whole bar and brasserie is getting done. It hasn’t been done in a number of years and we know people expect a certain standard when they come to the Fence Gate Inn.

“We want to meet those high expectations and the work will represent a significant investment.