A Hove pub has reopened with a new name, a new owner and a new focus.
The Urchin – previously the Belfast and more recently the Bell – has a shellfish menu, an array of craft beers and a stock of locally distilled Brighton Gin.
The pub, in Belfast Street, Hove, welcomed neighbours yesterday evening (Monday 16 February) and today it opened its doors to the public.
It is being run by Nick Jerrim, the former manager of the Royal Oak in Poynings, with backing from Nigel Lambe and Brad Jacobson, owners of the Brighton and Hove coffee shop chain Small Batch.
Mr Lambe also runs the Velo Café on The Level, with a second outlet due to open soon at Brighton Station. He previously ran the Horsham brewer WJ King.
Mr Lambe said that a six-figure sum had been invested in the Urchin since the Enterprise Inns pub changed hands last autumn.
The Urchin is open. Pop in and say hello to Nick & the team. pic.twitter.com/JdpiUZC7be
— The Urchin (@UrchinPub) February 17, 2015