A NEW landlord has taken over a village pub with major plans to “bring it back to life”.

Jonathan Spencer and his partner Grace have thrown themselves into the community as the new owners of The Rising Sun, in Colden Common.

Mr Spencer has worked in the pub industry his whole life. The family decided to take on their local after recently moving to the area with their two kids.

Mr Spencer, who lives in Spring Lane, said: “It’s always been sad seeing the Rising Sun not reach its potential. The outgoing landlord has been brilliant in handing over all the information.

“I want to work with the community to create what they want. I’m looking to link up with the community groups. We want to be in the centre of life here and serve great food.

“Our digital marketing presence sets us apart and that will continue to grow. There are people out there spending money. If you open a pub and all you sell is bangers and mash, that’s something people can cook at home. We’re going to serve what you can’t make yourself at home.

“We’re going to sell a great pint and food that’s different with great service and a smile.”

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Hampshire Chronicle: Jonathan and Grace Spencer and their daughterJonathan and Grace Spencer and their daughter (Image: Jonathan Spencer)

The publican has already been busy bringing back real ale, a pool table, darts and revamping the interior as well as hosting a meet the landlord evening at Colden Common Community Centre for customers to get to know him and share their feedback.

But there are bigger plans for the pub with Mr Spencer hoping to close the venue in the New Year for a fuller refit and to refurbish the garden area.

The pub will also be recruiting 25 more staff members after Christmas.

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Mr Spencer currently runs five pubs in the Midlands, where he and his family moved from, but is now ready to grow his brand in Hampshire.

Mr Spencer, 31, said: “We’ve got a good portfolio down there and now we’re looking to expand our brand down here. We’re looking actively for a very nice restaurant in the city centre.

“Winchester is so good already so we’re being quite selective with what we want, we’re looking at places in Jewry Street.”

Although, the new landlord has big changes in store for the Colden Common pub, the bouncy castle, play area, meat draws, quiz nights and other pub staples will be staying.

The team is currently recruiting a head chef, with the aim of serving food by the end of the month.