A PUB is under new management just a year after the previous licensee moved in.

The Borough Arms in Lymington, which occupies the same site as an 18th century posting house, reopened at the start of December under new licensee team Debbie and Carl Milward.

The pub, which is owned by national community pub group Admiral Taverns, has had a complete internal and external refurbishment and reopens in time for the busy festive season.

Debbie and Carl are known in the wider community having been tenants at The Royal Oak at Downton for the last three years.

The pair said they were quick to spot the potential for the Borough Arms, which is a short walk from the town centre and had been on the market for a couple of weeks.

The pub will reopen with a newly improved home cooked food offering, drawing on seasonal, locally sourced produce.

Commenting, licensee Debbie Milward said: “As a former 18th century posting house, the Borough Arms is full of character and Carl and myself are determined to re-establish the pub as a real asset to Lymington.

"We are delighted to have the pub refreshed and raring to go for the festive season, with an improved exterior and welcoming home cooked menu offering something for everyone in the local community.

"In the longer run however, it’s a case of ‘watch this space’. Being centrally located in the thriving and buzzing town of Lymington there is so much potential for this pub and with Admiral’s support we are looking forward to turning our vision for the Borough Arms into a reality.”

Anna Clissold, business development manager for the New Forest and Hampshire for Admiral Taverns said: “I’m absolutely delighted to have Debbie and Carl on board.

"They are already starting to put their own stamp on this traditional community pub which is great to see, and we are looking forward to building a long-term partnership with them for the future.”