A couple who have given a popular Sidmouth pub a tasty Italian flavour are ‘overwhelmed’ by how busy business has been in their opening week.

Taken on by Sarah McCracken and Phil Borrett, The Marine underwent a radical transformation as the pair looked to add an Italian twist to Sidmouth Esplanade.

Although the new-look pub has been operating for only a week, the results have far exceeded the couple’s initial expectations.

Support for the revamp failed to die down since a packed and successful launch evening last week.

Keen residents swarmed to the venue while enjoying their bank holiday weekend and Sarah said she hopes this weekend will see the same level of support.

“We are really thankful,” she said. “Everyone has made us feel welcome. Our launch night was really good – we couldn’t have asked for anything better.

“We would like to thank everyone who helped us with the refurbishment and all of the local support we have been given.”