IT IS a transformation that needs to be seen to be believed.

A new craft alehouse has opened in Romsey, taking over the site of the former William IV on Latimer Street.

The Tipsy Pig, which prides itself on serving lesser known but delicious ales and lagers, opened last Friday (December 23) to floods of local punters.

It is the first time a pub such as this has graced the town, which is co-managed by father and son duo Phil and Lucas Greenwood.

Regulars to the former William IV will scarcely recognise the pub that has taken its place.

With new hardwood floors, exposed brickwork, chesterfield sofas and windowed keg storage room, The Tipsy Pig is somewhere locals will soon be calling home.

"It was a lot of work to get it to this point, but we're happy to be opening," said Lucas, just hours before the launch on Friday.

"Me and dad have always wanted to own a pub and when we saw it was going, it was a no brainer.

"Dad saw it was being worked on whilst walking past earlier this year) and by the evening we had made an offer to take it over."

Lucas, 27, who has worked in the craft beer business for a number of years, feel in love with the industry Leeds and now says he wants to use that experience to treat the residents of Romsey to something new.

A number of events will also be taking place at the venue, with live music and tastings on the horizon.