Islanders see how the former 'Ritz' is shaping up

A CONSTANT stream of curious islanders took the opportunity to investigate how their former pub, 'the Ritz', had changed into a block of flats, at an open day of the former St Saviour's Tavern.

Development of the site at Cour de Frie Baton, had come up against passionate protest from former regulars, unwilling to lose their parish pub.

Martel Maides director Nick Renny said in just 30 minutes, roughly 100 islanders had walked through the door.

'It's been a complete zoo,' he said.

'A lot of people are people who used to enjoy drinking here so they've come out of curiosity. But a lot of people have been impressed with the flats and several have taken plans and details and asked to come back for a more private viewing.'