A FORMER run-down nightclub in Hitchin has been transformed into a state-of-the-art restaurant and bar, and is due to open to the public next month.

The former Remix nightclub and Hermitage Ballroom, which has played host to the likes of Eric Clapton, is to reopen as a restaurant called Hermitage Rd, on - as its name suggests - Hermitage Road.

It will be run by the Nye family, who also own The Fox at Willian, and ran fishmongers Fish at the Fox, which shut last month.

As these pictures show, the restaurant is on course to open next month, although a date has not yet been disclosed.

In a joint statement, Howard Nye and his partner Ellene Immelman said that they were looking forward to opening.

They added: “We are breaking down the barriers of traditional dining by offering the modern equivalent.

“It will be a great place for meeting with friends and family to socialise and eat the most sumptuous fresh food cooked to perfection in the open kitchen in theatrical style. You’ll obviously be able to snack or feast but there’ll also be lots of sharing platters and brunch in the bar after a big night out.

“It’s a unique concept and it’s coming to Hitchin in September. Watch this space and we look forward to welcoming you.”

The restaurant’s head chef will be 24-year-old Kumour Addin, who currently works at The Fox as the sous chef.

Although a final menu has not been decided on, ideas are being thrown about.

They include beetroot, mint and cr�me fraiche risotto with wobbly bottom goat’s cheese, pan fried sea bass, brown shrimp and lemon risotto, and butterfly chicken and chorizo burger with mango and chilli relish, as well as various starters and desserts.

The restaurant is asking people to show an interest on its website www.hermitagerd.co.uk with those that sign up being emailed special offers for the opening week.