The brewers Fullers will finally begin work on renovating The Plough pub, East Sheen, later this month with re-opening due in the middle of May.

It has also appointed a manager to run the much loved community pub, who will begin recruiting a kitchen and front of house team shortly.

The community pub has been shut since last November after the brewery, which owns the Freehold, refused a new lease to the long-standing landlord.

The landlord took out many of the fixtures and fittings, including much of the kitchen, which forced the closure of the pub.

The closure triggered a backlash from locals, including local councillors. More than 1,000 people signed a petition opposing the decision by Fuller's in less than 24 hours and they threatened a boycott.

There has been an on-going dispute over the future of the garden next to the pub, which has been crucial to its appeal and success.

It is not clear who owns the plot of land – the previous landlord or Richmond Borough Council. This issue has still not been resolved.

Fuller's said: "We are starting work at The Plough on 21 March 2022. We anticipate the works will take around two months and we will open very shortly afterwards, hopefully around the middle of May.

"We will be working hard to make sure the traditional character and heritage of The Plough, that have made it so successful over the years, will be retained.

"Our vision for The Plough is one of a pub that serves the needs and wants of the local community.

"Like any Fuller's pub, you can expect an outstanding, warm welcome, a fantastic range of beers, wines and spirits, and delicious fresh food from lunchtime sandwiches and lighter bites to hearty Sunday roasts and regularly changing specials. Our aim is to be a great local for our locals and to put the pub back at the heart of the community."

On the issue of the garden, it said: "The garden area was a lovely feature of the pub, and we continue to pursue all avenues to make sure it can be an integral part of The Plough.

"We know it has been a difficult time for our neighbours at The Plough – and we thank them for the ongoing understanding."

The new management team will be led by Sonia Labatut, who is an experienced General Manager and has spent the last six years running one of Fuller's most iconic pubs – The Dove at Hammersmith.

Anyone interested in working at the pub can make contact via email - [email protected]