A PART of one of Taunton’s most popular pubs was demolished seven years ago this week, ahead of its £1.4 million refurbishment.

In 2017, work commenced to refurb one of Taunton’s pub hotspots – The Perkin Warbeck, on East Street.

The Wetherspoons outlet closed this month back in 2017 for three months as part of its renovation which included the outdoor seating area upstairs - now loved by locals at this time of year.

In the original plans for the development of Perkin Warbeck, the pub was set to feature outdoor seating at the front of the establishment, along with some plants featured.

Original proposals for outside seating at the front of Perkin Warbeck, Taunton. (Image: PA) The pub's new look was shown off later in September 2017, with some new garden décor accompanied by a pergola with added lights.

After being done up 7 years ago, the outdoor seating area hasn’t got much use due to the classic British weather but was very popular this year, especially during the Euros when people were flocking to the beer gardens.

Perkin Warbeck's new outside seating area upstairs at the time of re-opening. (Image: PA)

Due to the upgrade of the pub, Perkin Warbeck was able to offer out an additional 35 full and part-time jobs, while existing staff, who were deployed to other Wetherspoons pubs during the refit, returned to the pub.

Pub manager at the time, Luke Bakewell, was optimistic ahead of the re-opening.

Luke said back in 2017: “Wetherspoon have spent a huge £1.4million on the pub, creating more jobs for local people and providing further investment in the town.

“I am looking forward to welcoming customers back into the new look pub and we are confident that they will be impressed by the transformation of the new building.”