The team behind Newington Green’s much-loved Alma pub has re-opened Soho institution Molly Moggs.

The Alma is a regular in London’s “pub of the year” award ceremonies, and Wes Deaton and Jimmy Patrick are looking to bring their magic touch to Molly’s, which is at the heart of the capital’s gay scene.

It closed under its previous management at the end of March, but Wes and Jimmy re-opened it a couple of weeks ago, with its official relaunch party on Monday.

Wes said: “It’s such a famous pub and Jimmy hates to see pubs close down. It’s an institution and the punters love it.

“We got the keys, did a quick clean and had it back open within three days. It’s been a huge success already.

“It’s going to be exactly the same, with all of the old acts and DJs, and most of the previous staff.”

The Alma team also runs North by Northwest in New North Road and King William IV in Hampstead.