A PUB in Colwyn Bay is welcoming back customers after nine months of closure following an arson attack.

The Toad, on West Promenade, returned - with a new logo - initially on Saturday (June 24) for a “soft opening”, before it re-opened fully today (June 30).

It follows an incident at the pub on the morning of September 27, 2022, which left the premises requiring an entire refurbishment.

Leaseholder Pete Hammond, whose association with The Toad goes back nearly two decades, said:  “After a very challenging nine months, we are finally flinging the front door open to all customers old and new.

“We are just so excited and blessed to be open again after nine months.

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“On behalf of myself and my amazing new team, a massive thank-you to Becky, my area manager at Admiral Taverns; Dani from Admiral Taverns, who got all the works on the pub organized; and Damian, Steve and all the contractors from Kensington.

“Without them, there would not have been a Toad anymore.

“I can’t forget the amazing Adam McLean for his designs and help re-branding this amazing pub.

“And to all of my family, friends and customers, thank you all for your support through these last nine months.”

The Toad was due to be closed from September 24-30 when the arson attack took place on September 27.

On September 28, police confirmed a man had been arrested in connection with two arson offences in the Colwyn Bay and Rhos-on-Sea areas.

Pete also lives in a flat above the pub with his partner and children; that was also smoke damaged as a result of the attack.

Previously, Pete told the Pioneer following the arson attack: “It’s going to have to have a proper, professional clean, because smoke damage obviously isn’t just a matter of wiping stuff down.

“That’s before we even start having everything refurbished.

“All of the upholstery has to be sent away, all of the foam and fabrics have to be re-done, and all of the wallpaper will have to be stripped. It’s going to be a big job.”