A PUB is set to reopen next month after a name change and facelift.

The Sheepwalk Pub in High Road, Leytonstone, has been closed for almost five weeks for a major refurbishment.

But the pub will open on November 16 rebranded as The Crown, with a new menu, a wider range of drinks and several plasma screen for sports events.

Owners The Tommy Flynn group have been running the public house for about one year. Under its old title, the pub fell foul of police investigating drug dealing and alcohol being served to children. It was subsequently closed for a month in summer 2011.

However, its new management wants to turn the pub into a traditional local, with food and live music.

Averil Flynn, partner of The Tommy Flynn Group, said: "The pub has been completely gutted and refurbished - it looks fantastic.

"We are looking to transform the pub. We are also planning to host live bands at the weekend and the function room will also be extensively used, especially over the festive period for parties.

"The external signage has been updated to complement The Crown’s new look and remind the Leytonstone community that The Crown is back to its former glory as their local."

The pub’s official launch will run from 23rd until 25th November.