A SOUTHAMPTON couple are toasting success after winning through to the finals of a national pub competition.

Glenda Buck and Ron Allin, from the Pensioners Arms in Bedford Place, have been named the regional winner of the Greene King New Licensee of the Year award.

They will now battle it out with other area victors at the final in London later this month.

Ms Buck, who previously worked at the pub before becoming co-licensee with her mechanic partner, said: "We try to look after our customers and give everyone a nice, warm welcome."

Greene King sales development manager Paul Brown said: "The awards aim to reward our very best licensees for their hard work and dedication to their pubs and customers.

"Glenda and Ron deserve this recognition and I wish them lots of luck in the grand final."