ONE OF Southampton’s best known pubs, which is internationally famous for its maritime connections, has a new man at the helm.

The Juniper Berry in Castle Square, which stands on the site of the former home of author Jane Austen, has a new general manager, Micky Penfold.

He took over the management of the watering hole from Mick McCarthy who has run the pub for 13 years.

They celebrated the handover at a function last week when Mr McCarthy told the guests and customers that he had decided to take a break from the day to day running of the business.

Micky Penfold has been working in the Juniper Berry for the last two years.

Micky has been working with Mr McCarthy’s family for more than 10 years.

Born in Adelaide Road in St Denys, he was educated in Bitterne Park schools and served in the Royal Navy for 11 years as a marine engineer.

He helped set up a new bar, the Clockwork in Shirley before moving to the Juniper Berry.

Micky is also well known as a DJ in the city and said that music would form a big part of his new business, which has a function room that caters for weddings and private parties.

Micky said: “We also have seven rooms which we let out to guests.

“We are always busy particularly during the Boat Show week and with all the cruise ships that come in and out of the port.

“The pub, which is located within the historic old walls of the city, is world famous for its maritime history.

“It is known by Merchant seamen from all over the world and has had a very colourful past. Today we get many visitors from the States, Australia, New Zealand and from all over Europe.”

He added: “This is a new chapter for us. Many of the existing staff members will continue to work here including our manager, Fiona Sinclair.

“The future is looking very bright for us.”