A RESTORED church in the heart of Fareham is about to get a new lease of life as a pub.

The old United Reformed Church in West Street will open its doors tomorrow for the first time in years, this time as a trendy pub, The Vanguard.

Named after Admiral Nelson's most famous ship, the careful restoration work has cost £1m and will employ 30 staff.

Brenda Clapperton, of the Fareham Society, said she was glad to see the building back in use and retaining so many of its original features.

She said: "The building was bought as part of a compulsory purchase order by the council when it decided to develop the Market Quay area. It is a Grade II listed building and the church was originally opened in 1836.

"It is a lovely building and many of its historic features have been carefully restored. We are quite happy with the design and feel the building is being put to an adequate use."

The Vanguard is going to offer three bars over two floors and also has a pavement licence for the summer.

Manager, David Montgomery, said: "The team and I are really looking forward to opening. It is such an impressive building. I am sure the local community will enjoy socialising at The Vanguard for many occasions."

Fareham town centre manager, Patricia Gray, is confident the new pub will be a great success for the town as a whole.

"Anything that brings people in to Fareham and builds on its popularity is going to be well accepted," she said.