A derelict pub which once faced demolition has been given a new lease of life by a group of men determined to see it succeed.

Over the last year, the inside of the Woodhouse Tavern in Leytonstone has been lovingly restored and refurbished, and now, it is almost ready to welcome its first customers.

One half of the landmark building in Harrow Road has been restored in all its vintage glory, with the new owners retaining the dark oak panelled walls and even the original flooring.

Lukas Sheen and his father of Coex Properties LLP who now own the pub have vast experience in restoration projects.

“There was never any question, we were always going to bring it back as a pub,” Lukas said.

“We wanted to keep as many of the original features as we could, like the bar.”

We’ve managed to maintain all of the original character by just stripping everything back down to keep it as it was.

Mr Sheen has recruited a trusted father and son duo to carry the business forward.

Experienced property manager Keith Thomas, 60, and son Tariq Dunstan, 26, want to make the Woodhouse thrive, but have entirely new ideas for the old boozer.

“Before it was a traditional kind of pub, but what we are going for is the relaxing bar feel,” Tariq said.

“We want to attract an adult audience, and give the community somewhere to come and socialise in a relaxing surrounding.

“We are looking at offering a range of events, like jazz nights, soul nights and even a debate evening.

“During the day, we are going to open as a relaxing, intimate venue for people to come and, we won’t have an extensive menu, but we will be serving coffees, pastries and panninis; light bites.”

Keith, who has grand ideas for the 300-capacity venue, believes there is a thirst in the borough for new, distinctive venues.

“People in the community need somewhere to go to feel a part of the community,” he said.

“We are going to create that space. We are not thinking of it as a traditional pub.

“Friends of mine, musicians and playwrights, we are going to get them in to provide quality entertainment and nights for people to enjoy.”

Owner Mr Sheen believes they have what it takes to ensure the Woodhouse becomes the beating heart of the community.

“It’s all about the people running a venue though, you can’t just open it and expect it to work.

“These guys, I know, will put their souls into it, and will put their own stamp on the place.”

At present, just half the pub is open, as the second half is still being restored.

The venue will open in mid-August.