Pub celebrates anniversary after reopening for the first time since 1982

• 
• 
• 
• 
• 

A pub in Southampton has celebrated its one-year anniversary after bursting back onto the scene some 42 years after it closed.

Father and daughter team Markus and Esmay Dov reopened the Engineers Arms in Northam Road last summer.

Originally welcoming customers to sit inside and enjoy a variety of food and drinks, the last year has seen the pub expand its premises, knocking through an old wall to create a brand-new games area where people are able to play pool, darts, or try their luck on the slot machines.

Speaking to the Echo, Markus said: "We've probably invested close to £100,000 over the last year to create more space in the pub and expand beyond the bar area.

"It's not been easy and there's a few things we still have to finish but we're a proper pub and it's great to serve people in the community."

READ MORE: Dog and Duck in Shirley, Southampton, changes name

The Engineers Arms (Image: Newsquest) Located a stone's throw away from St Mary's Stadium, Markus admitted Southampton Football Club's poor performance in the Premier League last season had affected trade.

"When the club is winning, everyone wants to go to the pub and have a beer and talk about the game but when they lose, people have had enough and they just want to go home," said Markus.

"Last season was a difficult year for the club and we're hoping for better results this season, so people will want to come and have a drink with us after the game, as well as before the match.

"There's a big emphasis on attracting the football crowds for us, but we also have live music each week and there's a lot on offer."

The pub offers beer from '£3 a pint' during the week from 12pm to 2pm and 4pm to 6pm.

Anyone walking by the pub will notice a sign outside the entrance that states: "Customers wanted, please apply within, no previous experience needed."