A Southampton carvery and pub has been forced to close after rats were allegedly found nearby.

Walnut Tree Farm on Adanac Drive in Nursling was shut as of Friday morning - and at the time it was not clear when it would reopen.

It remained closed on Saturday.

It appears the pests were found in grounds close to the pub and were uncovered due to construction work.

When asked about reports of rats, a spokesperson for Greene King, which runs the pub, said: “We decided to close the pub as we are aware of an issue in the grounds in close proximity to our premises due to construction work.

"We want to reassure customers that we are taking this matter extremely seriously and have followed the correct procedures in order to protect our business.

"We have conducted a comprehensive investigation and are working with pest control experts to ensure we provide safeguarding for our business and continue to hold our high food hygiene rating of ‘5’ (Very Good).”