A THATCHED pub in the New Forest is on the market after its current licensees decided to start a new venture abroad.

The Elm Tree at Ringwood has been put on the market through leisure property specialist Fleurets by current lessees Tim Buckle and Alan Douglas.

The listed pub at Hightown Road includes a listed barn or private functions, which accommodates around 60 seated or 100 standing. There are two separate flats for staff or managers.

Mr Buckle and Mr Douglas have been at the pub for six years and say trade is still increasing.

Mr Buckle said: “Trade has increased year on year and we feel there is a lot more to develop here. “We attract mainly local trade so rather than the business being unpredictable and seasonal with the New Forest on our doorstep, this means we have a consistent turnover all year round.

"We are sad to be leaving as there is more we could do here but we are looking to move abroad and start a new venture.”

The property is available on partially tied lease from Greene King and turned over £1m net of VAT to December 2013.

Kate Dowd of Fleurets said: “This is an exceptional site and whilst our clients have more than doubled trade in the last six years, there is lots more for an experienced operator to develop here.”