George Eustice MP toasted a pub’s revival following a £450,000 refurbishment on Friday.

The investment to the Unicorn on The Beach, in Porthowan, has transformed the tired local into a family and dog friendly coastal pub with a focus on locally sourced produce, creating 25 jobs.

Tom Trubshaw, the pub's general manager, said: “It’s been a fantastic few weeks since we opened the doors. Customers in particular love our daily specials menu based on what the fisherman and local butchers have in. They love that the fish and lobster are straight off the boat.

“From our side, we’ve been delighted by the response from locals who are thrilled that we’re realising the potential of this Cornish treasure and are putting our heart and soul into creating a stand-out coastal pub. We’re very much looking forward to playing a central role in the community and celebrating our first Christmas and New Year in Porthtowan.”

Since opening, the Unicorn on the Beach has been embraced by both the local community and visitors, with 888 likes on its Facebook page and 4.5 out of 5 ratings on Trip Advisor.

The interior of the pub has been completely overhauled to create a light, airy retro feel with a relaxed beach bar, a snug with an open fire, a dining style conservatory, games room and private dining room.

Outside the new terrace’s ocean views and stunning beachside location have been well used.

For now, the team is focussed on setting up a calendar of activities for the local community and at the start of 2020 will embark on phase two of the refurbishment, the creation of five boutique en-suite bedrooms and a Surf House for 20 people in luxury New England style pods.

Mr Eustice said: “Pubs are often the cornerstones of our local communities and at a challenging time for the industry, it’s great to see The Unicorn on the Beach doing really well. The reviews to date have been extremely positive and it is definitely a welcome addition to the area for local residents and those who visit Porthtowan. I wish all the staff and managers at the Unicorn on the Beach the best of luck in the days and months ahead.”

Star Pubs & Bars regional operations director, Neil Convery, added: “The Unicorn on the Beach is in a fantastic location and has experienced operators at the helm brimming with innovative ideas. Tom and his staff and The Johnson Collective team are passionate about giving Porthtowan a pub residents can be proud of. I’d like to congratulate them as by the looks of it they are doing just that.”