After being closed for three years and having undergone a complete transformation, the former King's Head pub in the centre of town, is to reopen this weekend.

Under new ownership, and with a new name - The Kings - the pub at Church Corner is virtually unrecognisable inside. Gone is the space-wasting central bar which opens up the interior and allows tables to be scattered around.

The project is the brainchild of Simon Fudge, who is the landlord of the Mason's Arms in Killigrew Street, and his business partner, Chris Sanders. They were approached by Sky Blue Properties, who are redeveloping the upper floors of the building to create student accommodation, and asked if they wanted to take the pub on.

After some discussions, they jumped at the chance and over the last few months have been overseeing the complete renovation of the bar. "As the building is grade two listed, we have had to make a few changes along the way," said Simon.

"We found a red brick wall that was the original wall from way back which we had to keep but it gave us the inspiration for the interior decoration and we went from there. We wanted to make it something a bit different from anything else around.

"We didn't want to pigeon-hole ourselves and wanted a pub that is a total chameleon. In the day time it's going to be coffee and food with the music very low and a relaxed atmosphere catering for families, but at the weekend evenings the vibe changes. DJs will start playing and it will all be about cocktails and music."

While Simon will continue to run the Mason's Arms, The Kings will be managed by Matthew Tomsett, supported by his deputy, Alex Salisbury. The final member of the management team is Amy Bennetts, who runs the Seven Stars, who is in charge of the admin.

The Kings will re-open to the public at 11am on Saturday, July 15, following a private preview event the night before.