A PUB in Poole has temporarily closed as it prepares to undergo a six-figure overhaul.

The Red Lion in Blandford Road closed its doors at midnight on Saturday, September 9, ahead of the ‘major refit’.

When it re-opens, the watering hole will boast a new look and menu, and will no longer be part of the ‘Hungry Horse’ chain.

However, it is understood it will still be called The Red Lion and owned by Greene King.

A spokesperson for Greene King said: “The Red Lion pub on Blandford Road has closed its doors for a short period whilst it undertakes a six-figure investment.

“The pub will reopen its doors to the public in autumn, following completion of some major renovations to the pub both internally and externally, boasting all new décor and a food and drinks menu to get customers excited.”

Details of the refurbishment work have been listed in a minor variation premises licence application submitted for the venue.

It includes the addition of a new section of fixed seating in the dining area and “garden enhancement works”.

It also outlines a new screen in the dining area and removing a fake chimney on site.

A decision is yet to be made on this licensing application, which was submitted by Greene King Retailing Limited, and it remains open for public consultation until September 13.

Ahead of Saturday’s closure, the Red Lion team wrote on Facebook: “As many of you will already know, we will be closing our doors as a Hungry Horse on September 11.

“The team want to say a huge thanks to all of our wonderful guests for such fantastic support over the years and we hope to see you before we close.”

A second Hungry Horse pub - The Cranleigh in Iford - will also undergo a six-figure investment.

It temporarily closed on Monday, September 4, to allow for refitting to start.

The pub has plans for a refurbishment and a new menu but is set to remain as a Hungry Horse.

A re-opening date is yet to be confirmed for either pub, but they are both expected to welcome customers back in autumn.