DIGNITARIES dropped into a Welwyn pub during its re-opening celebrations.

Former Welwyn Hatfield mayor Kim Langley and MP Grant Shapps both popped into the newly opened The Wellington in High Street.

The 13th century pub and restaurant re-opened on May 24, having been closed since a fire gutted the establishment in June last year.

The day before, Cllr Langley visited for a look round.

It was her last public engagement before handing over the mayoral chain to Howard Morgan.

She told the Welwyn Hatfield Times her sneak preview was very enjoyable.

She said: “Out of the fire rises a beautiful phoenix; the building has been restored in a fantastic way.

“Everyone was delighted that this local establishment is back up and running.”

And Welwyn Hatfield MP Grant Shapps followed on May 28, to declare the pub officially open.

A pub spokeswoman added: “We are just so pleased to be back in business!”