THE first customers are being welcomed through the doors of a transformed hotel at the heart of Aberlady.

Northern Irish private investment firm Wirefox acquired the former Ducks Hotel in September last year.

Now renamed The Leddie, an extensive refurbishment and design project has been carried out.

The hotel opened today (Monday) with an official opening due to take place next Monday.

The change of name is a nod to the original name of the river that runs through the village.

The Leddie is home to 27 bedrooms, a bar and 70-cover restaurant, complete with, according to the team behind the business, “a cosy lounge area with a roaring fire and inviting nooks”.

The Leddie - previously Ducks Hotel - is welcoming its first visitors today (Monday)The Leddie - previously Ducks Hotel - is welcoming its first visitors today (Monday)

Earlier this year, Wirefox confirmed Robert Clark, previously general manager of The Scran & Scallie in Edinburgh and the Bonnie Badger in nearby Gullane, as general manager.

At the time, he said: “I am delighted to have joined Wirefox at the early stages of the Marram collection and cannot wait to launch this beautiful property after all the hard work that has gone into it, from everyone involved.

“It is an exciting time and we are focussed on providing great hospitality for all of our guests, and we can’t wait to open our doors and welcome you this summer.”