An old Sutton High Street pub which has been under renovation for two years has now been reopened as a new community space.

The Dolphin became available to the public again on September 19 after it was refurbished to now have a meeting space and 24/7 prayer room.

Sutton Vineyard brought the former boozer under its project, titled 'Lighthouse', this month two years ago as it looked to support local families.

The aim was for the scheme to provide “free, pre-loved, good quality” clothes for children up to five years old as well as equipment for the community.

After taking on the old pub which closed several years ago, as a renovation project, it has now become a home for ‘Lighthouse’.

In addition, the community space will hold parenting courses, Christians against Poverty (CAP) debt advice sessions, and a dedicated prayer space.

Mayor of Sutton Cllr Steve Cook officially opened the new community space alongside other businesses, community agencies, Sutton church leaders and the ‘Lighthouse’ team.

Aidan Tierney, who also owns the Dolphin, said: “When renovating, we tried to retain the character of the building as much as possible.

“A former pub retained by the community for the residents of Sutton is incredibly fitting and exciting.”