STYLISH and modern, Old Town's Kings Arms Hotel has re-opened its doors following a quarter of a million pound refit.

Now known just as The Kings, Swindon mayor David Cox was joined by Arkell's managing director James Arkell for a champagne reception at the venue yesterday.

Speeches were preceded by a fanfare by two trumpeters from the Wiltshire Yeomanry and Coun Cox completed the opening ceremony by pulling a pint.

He said: "The Kings is a gem for Old Town, I remember coming in here with my friends back in the 1960s."

Manageress Nicky Piper, along with parents Chris and Pat and her partner Geoff, took over The Kings almost two years ago and turned it into a top live music venue.

Chris said: "We wanted to give it a more up-to-date look, and I think it's worked."

After three months work, the old building is looking pristine. Even the toilets are beautifully fitted-out with Italian mosaic floors.

Regulars will notice the bar has been moved to the right wall, and a huge skylight has been installed.

A dining room situated at the back of the premises has now been converted to a 42-seat restaurant, decorated with examples of contemporary art supplied by The Croft Gallery.

And the former residents' lounge, which was home to a television has been revamped with comfortable seating and tables. Other changes include a new sound system.

James Arkell said: "Arkell's Brewery bought The Kings in 1885 and as one of our longest-owned it holds a special affection for us. Especially as it is also in one of the oldest parts of Swindon."