THE new Mayor of Abingdon is becoming familiar with some of the perks of the job.

Helen Pighills, who was elected to her role earlier this month, visited Abingdon’s King’s Head and Bell to check out the results of a £150,000 revamp.

Pub owners Foundation Inns, which bought the 16th century East Saint Helen Street Inn six years ago, said it wanted to freshen the place up.

So the company entirely redecorated inside, bought new furniture and revamped the menu, adding more tapas-style dining.

But the main focus was on the garden, with new decorations, astroturf, seating and heating.

Foundation founder Ian Grundy said: “She really liked it, I think everyone was pleased that we have kept it interesting but also in keeping with the age of the building.