After 22-weeks of construction, Marston’s £3.5 million Five Bridges pub is almost ready for business.

Before its official opening on April 25, the Times Guardian was given a sneak peak inside the Island’s newest hostelry.

Although site manager Richard Knight describes the Neats Court setting as the windiest place he’s ever constructed anything, the project has gone very well for “a winter build”.

This morning, eight tons of deliveries were dropped off at the Five Bridges with the final touches being made to the pub and carvery, which will employ 50 people.

Manager Lee Hyland says he can’t wait to open the doors and if the reaction on social media is anything to go by, they will be well supported.

The 40-year-old, who is originally from the Rochester area, says he expects customers to be drawn from Neats Court shoppers, Islanders and people living in Iwade and Sittingbourne.

When it opens for business, the Sheppey Pirates will be on hand to lend support, with Lee saying he is keen from the outset to get the pub involved in the community.

The Five Bridges, which will cater for 150 diners at a time, has a modern feel – even the kiddies’ play area has touch-screen games.

It will offer a Milestone Carvery, with freshly roast lamb, beef and chicken every day, alongside a wide selection of family meals.

Lee, who says he has been in the pub game since he was 13 , expects staff to serve 3,000 meals a week.

He said: “There are only two weeks to go until we open and we are delighted to have our team on board.

“We can’t wait to welcome in the community to sample our extensive menu and to raise a glass to our opening.”

“To start with, I’ll be wandering around making sure everything is going well and meeting customers and learning about the community.”

Marston’s area operations manager, Paul Whiteman, added: “We’re extremely excited about the Five Bridges and hope when opened it will build a great reputation locally.”

The attention to detail resulted in a former Islander being chosen as the face to go on the pub's sign.

Although it officially opens on April 25, the weekend before will be used as “dry-run” days where staff can get to grips with their new jobs.

If you would like at visit the pub at this time, you’ll need to book by calling 07967 322724.