The official opening of a new “mini pub” in Halstead has been hailed a success.

Gilly Ryan, who runs The Griffin, in Parsonage Street, officially opened the Griffin Bar in Queens Hall, on Friday with a paella feast in a new 4ft pan.

Gilly said: “It was a really nice evening - very good fun.

“The Queens Hall is a fantastic town asset and I am looking forward to being a part of people’s fun and adventures.

“It will be nice to meet lots of new people.”