ONE of Irvine's most popular pubs closed its doors for the final time this month - but it will be re-opening in the near future.

The former R&A Sports Bar has now shut up shop following a takeover by UK-wide pub chain Amber Taverns.

As part of the takeover, which the Times revealed back in April, the bar was always due to close around this time - the end of the football season.

This is to allow for a £500,000 refurbishment of the venue, which will be re-opening under the new name of 'The Northern Way' - the same name dawned by one of Amber Taverns' other bars in Paisley.

So when exactly can the people of Irvine expect to see this revamped bar.

The Times has been informed that The Northern Way is aiming for a soft/VIP opening for invited guests on Thursday, June 29 - before re-opening to the general public on the following day, Friday, June 30.

These dates have been cautiously set out, depending on the completion of refurbishment works.

The Times was previously told by Amber Taverns that the former Sports Bar would be transformed into a "contemporary community pub".

A company representative explained further: "We will upgrade the audio-visual with new HD TVs and Bog Screen.

"We will still feature a range of televised sport SkySports, Viaplay, DAZN and TNT Sports as part of our offer.

"We will retain pool and darts and also introduce a shuffle table and karaoke room. 

"There will be an extended range of draught beers available which will include a selection of national and regional cask ales.

"There will be  a wide range of spirits and selected wines, prosecco and even an awesome Cava.

"The kitchen will remain closed and we will operate an over-18 policy.

"However children will be allowed to attend private functions on the first floor."