Watford based pub operator JD Wetherspoon will officially open the country’s first motorway bar and restaurant at Beaconsfield services on the M40 on Tuesday.

The controversial plans for the first motorway pub in Englandreceived mixed reactions from residents but the ‘The Hope and Champion’ management team are excited to start serving customers.

Manager Steve Baldwin said: “Myself and my team are looking forward to welcoming customers into The Hope and Champion.”

The new establishment will be open from 4am until 1am seven days a week and the pub, which is split over two floors, is licensed to serve alcohol from 9am.

Mr Baldwin said: “The Extra Motorway Service Area, now including The Hope and Champion, primarily serves the Motorway users, but its facilities are also available to the surrounding community from the local road network.”