A POPULAR Blandford pub has reopened after a £135,000 makeover.

The Dolphin, in East Street, has been refurbished after award-winning Craft Union Pub Company invested in the venue.

The firm said guests can look forward to new features, such as a new range of drinks, plenty of new entertainment and revamped outdoor spaces.

Inside the pub, original features remain but it has been given a refreshing touch with some new furniture, fixtures and fittings, a spokesperson said.

Landlady Tamara Willmott will be reopening the doors and welcoming everyone back, having been at the Dolphin for over a year.

Before starting in hospitality, she worked as cabin crew for 20 years and has since managed pubs and carried out other roles in the sector.

“I am so excited that the doors to the Dolphin have been re-opened,” she said. “We look forward to welcoming all of our amazing customers back in.

The new-look smoking area at The Dolphin in Blandford

“Community is at the heart of everything we do, and our guests are what make the pub. Our new features are sure to enhance the customer experience, and we can guarantee a great range of drinks, and a fun time.

“The team and I hope to see you all very soon.”

A spokesperson added: “While there has been the addition of some new elements, the Dolphin has retained its beloved character and charm of a traditional pub in the heart of its community.”

They said the bar has also been enhanced, offering new addition to the draught beers, Fosters, alongside choices of Timothy Taylor’s Landlord, Doom Bar and Carling.

A new bar menu is also now available at The Dolphin in Blandford

“The drinks menu also features an array of wines and spirits, so you will be sure to find your favourite tipple,” the spokesperson went on.

The investment has also seen the addition of a small smoking area to the rear of the pub and an improved outdoor space.

“The pub is a true community hub, visited by all the locals frequently, and to bring Blandford together even more is its newly instated exciting entertainment schedule,” they said.

“Sports fans in the area can continue to watch live games on the pub HD TV screens, all with Sky Sports and TNT Sports, so you do not have to miss any of the action.”

The Darts League takes place on Wednesday evenings, as the Dolphin welcomes their two local teams to play, with quiz nights on Tuesdays, Bongo Bingo and Live Entertainment on Fridays and Karaoke on Sundays.

A grand launch party is planned in the coming weeks, as well as some festive entertainment.