First flood-hit Cockermouth pub reopens

The first pub in flood-hit Cockermouth, Cumbria, has reopened temporarily for the Christmas season with a makeshift bar.

The Fletcher Christian Tavern has opened today for wet sales following a clean-up operation after five feet of water flooded the Enterprise Inns-owned pub on 19 November.

Lessee John Reid estimated the loss of stock and damage to fixtures and fittings to total around £15,000. "The damage to the building will cost a lot more than that," said Reid.

"Enterprise Inns has been fantastic. They've worked so hard to get me up and running with new beer taps, furniture and everything else."

The pub company is taking care of all building expenses and will not charge rent until the pub is fully-functional and serving food again.

Since opening this morning, Reid said the pub has attracted regulars and contractors who are still working on the flood-damaged Main Street.

He has plenty of Christmas entertainment planned from karaoke to a local live band on Boxing Day.

The pub will close again on 3 January for a total refurbishment. "We're going for a redesign," said Reid. "At the moment, everything is wooden. We're going to modernise the pub with a metal bar, sofas, coffee tables and a contemporary black and white theme."

The capacity will increase from 200 to 300 covers.

The work is expected to take eight weeks.