AND so it begins… a Newton Abbot pub is ready and waiting to welcome the community as it celebrates its official opening following a major £250,000 transformation.

The White Hart is welcoming guests and members of the local community today, Friday, September 11, with a packed day of celebrations planned to mark the launch of its new-look venue.

Mayor of Newton Abbot, Cllr Louise Cooke, officially marked the occasion by cutting the ceremonial ribbon alongside landlady Kate Atkinson and her family.

Cllr Cooke said: ‘To see enthusiastic people coming into Newton Abbot with businesses like this, it is lovely’.

The celebrations got underway from midday, with the pub decorated for the occasion with a balloon arch, while guests can enjoy scones with cream and jam, an afternoon of bingo and a draw.

The day is also centred around raising awareness and money for Breast Cancer UK, with organisers encouraging the community to come along, enjoy the festivities and support the charity.

And there is a rather unusual challenge planned for later in the day.

A local netball team will head to the pub garden at 6pm to attempt to set a record as part of the celebrations.

The entertainment will then continue into the evening, with the "fabulous" Ivory Glam taking to the stage at 8pm, followed by karaoke at 9pm.

The White Hart's official opening follows a major transformation of the Newton Abbot venue, with more than £250,000 reportedly invested in giving the pub a new look.

With the ribbon officially cut, the doors are now open — and a full day of celebrations is underway.

Organisers are promising a day filled with "good vibes" while bringing people together to raise money for Breast Cancer UK.