AN MP got behind the bar and raised a glass in celebration of a pub reopening.

Simon Kirby, MP for Kemptown and Peacehaven, marked the start of a new era for Saltdean’s oldest pub Spanish Lady after a £200,000 investment that created 15 new jobs.

The Spanish Lady, owned by the Spirit Pub Company, opened in 1954 and has had a complete transformation to include a sea-view beer garden, a revamped bar with six ale pumps as well as continental and craft lagers and a new food menu.

Mr Kirby said: “Local pubs are an important part of any local community and we’re extremely pleased that Saltdean has attracted this significant investment.

“I know that the people of Saltdean are really going to love the pub’s new look and with the new menu I’d definitely recommend a stopover to anyone travelling along the coast road between Brighton and Peacehaven.”

General manager Aaron Bennett said: “Saltdean is a wonderful community village so we’re thrilled to be offering an even better place for people to socialise, eat freshly-cooked food and enjoy a drink.

“I’ve been particularly impressed with the new beer garden, which is sure to be a hit throughout the rest of the summer.”

The Spanish Lady is still looking for experienced bar and kitchen staff to join the team.

To apply call 01273 303383 and speak to the duty manager.