IT MAY look slightly different on the inside than it did several hundred years ago, but one of Witney's most historic pubs continues to welcome punters.

The Blue Boar, based in the former Market Square Coaching Inn, welcomed the community to celebrate its latest refurbishment – five years since it reverted back to its original name.

The pub was taken over by Oakman Inns in 2011 following a huge restoration programme but drinks have been served on the site for more than 200 years.

The Rector of Witney, Rev Toby Wright, pulled the first pint at the new look watering hole.

He said: “It was good to be at the celebrations for the anniversary and to see the work that has gone into this refurbishment.

“The pub has an important place in the history of Witney and I’m impressed by the way that the team want to support the local community and build up our wonderful town.”

According to deeds in the Witney and District Museum, the property was listed as The Blue Boar in the years 1789, 1799 and 1803.

The next time the property popped up on the records it was referred to as The Marlborough Arms Hotel in 1819.

Under its title as The Marlborough, the pub, based in the centre of town, became one of the principal coaching inns in Witney.

But in 2011 it reverted back to the name Blue Boar, which is taken from the crest of the De Vere family, who were Earls of Oxford.

In order to give the famous site a new look, there has been a lot of hard work put in to get everything in place.

In ten days, a huge team of building crafts people, together with the Blue Boar’s team – led by general manager, Giancarlo Ungaro – transformed the ground floor and the face of the building.

The exterior has changed colour, with its livery now a heritage dark blue. Inside, the pub has introduced Cotswold stone walls, recycled railway sleepers, wood panelling, vintage wall coverings and new lighting.

In the new restaurant, guests will find a more informal setting and a larger open-theatre kitchen so they can watch the chefs prepare food.

West Oxfordshire district councillor Jeanette Baker, who attended the anniversary event, said: “The refurbishment of the Blue Boar certainly enhances the premises and will be enjoyed not only by the residents and businesses in Witney, but tourists too.”

Louise Bush, of Witney, has worked at the Blue Boar since it opened in December 2011. During the evening, Peter Borg-Neal, the CEO of Oakman Inns, took the opportunity to recognise Ms Bush's support and thank her for playing an important role.