TWO first-time landlords are having 'lots of fun' running their Winchester pub – and hope to become a key part of the local community.

Debbie and Scott Lymbery took the reins at The Golden Lion in Alresford Road earlier this summer, moving to the city from New Milton.

Ever since, they have been finding their feet and learning the tricks of the trade.

The pair of self-proclaimed 'foodies' had been looking for a pub to run for a little while, and say the Wadworth-owned watering hole 'came up at the right time'.

Debbie said: "It's almost as if it was fate. We didn't even know the pub existed until we met here with our friends to have lunch.

"Scott and I said to each other, 'god this is nice', and the next day we were contacted to say it was available."

Now, step by step, they are looking to make the dog-friendly site their own, offering 'something for everyone'.

The picturesque pub, which is one of the only in Winchester to have a car park, is available for functions like weddings and birthday parties, has a kids area, and features a popular garden.

Different events are put on almost every day, including Sunday lunch, curry nights, live music and join-in jamming sessions.

The landlords are also looking forward to their Halloween special next month.

Scott said: "It's all about offering something to everyone.

"We want to offer proper pub food, but will always have a separate menu with a number of choices for vegetarians and vegans.

"No matter the customer's dietary requirements, we will always have something for them."

Although Scott and Debbie are looking to refurbish parts of the pub, this will not effect function availability and it will remain open throughout.

Debbie said: "This has been a big learning experience. We've met some lovely people here and it's been nothing but a nice experience so far.

"We hope to become a part of the community."