A revamped entertainment venue has opened in St Neots, which the director says he hopes will bring something a bit different to the town.

About 100 people went to the Oast Lounge – opposite the Priory Centre – for the opening night last Saturday (June 7).

The bar, which has a lounge, snooker and pool tables, large screen TVs and a projector screen, has created 10 jobs, and has opened in time for the World Cup which started this week.

Live music events, themed cocktail evenings, and poker nights will also be held at the venue.

Once the kitchen is up and running in about a month, bar snacks such as burgers will be available.

Director, Matthew Willard, said: “We came and looked at it and thought there and then that we had to have it. It’s taken us 12 weeks to get ready.”

This is Mr Willard’s first venture in the hospitality business, having previously worked as a construction manager.

He has had a keen interest in snooker and pool for many years.

He added: “It’s a lovely place to come – we have had no bad feedback whatsoever. Having 100 people for the opening was fantastic considering we had only gone through social media – there has been a lot of interest in it.

“We want to offer something a bit different to what’s in town at the moment – just somewhere anyone can come and enjoy. Basically it is just a pleasant place to come and relax.”

The previous owner ran into financial difficulties, leading to receivers being appointed on December 19 last year. Chartered surveyors, valuers and planning consultants Barford + Co reported that the property had been sold in March.

For more information visit www.theoastlounge.co.uk.