Caddick puts new spin on Springbok

England cricketing ace Andy Caddick is hoping his sporting know-how will prove an asset when the pub he co-owns undergoes a major revamp.

Caddick and business partner Steve Dew are investing £500,000 to transform the Springbok Bar in Cardiff into a modern venue called Dewi's.

The lease on the bar was bought earlier this year from Gerry Martin, the former head of the Old Monk Pub Company and brother of JD Wetherspoon boss Tim Martin.

The new multi-level outlet promises a modern decor and an in-house DJ.

Dew and Caddick hope the changes will allow them to retain their loyal customers, many of whom are sports fans, while giving the venue a fresh look.

Don't expect to see Caddick pulling pints, though. He will be involved in decision-making and promotion, but day-to-day running will be left to Dew.

Dew said: "I've been really pleased with the way business has gone in the past year, but we really need a complete makeover to keep pace with current bar trends.

"Dewi's will have a number of layers and a completely different feel.

"Our location in Mary Ann Street, outside the main city drag, means we have to fight that much harder for customers, and competition is fierce, with national chains increasingly coming in ­ so positioning is even more important for us."

Caddick said: "Springbok has worked well for us, but you have to keep moving in this game. Steve knows the city very well and has an instinct for giving Cardiff what it wants. I know the sport customers will still flock to Dewi's."

Renovation work starts early in the new year and the revamped bar is expected to re-open at the end of January.