ONE OF the city’s historic pubs has reopened its doors today, ready to welcome in Saints fans heading to the match this afternoon.

After closing nine months ago, the King Alfred Pub, on Old Northam Road, is back in action for Southampton fans on match days, kicking off today ahead of the game against Hull.

The pub had always been a popular meeting place for fans, before and after games, and although initially it will only be open for Saints fans on match days, when the local Antiques market opens early next year, the pub will be fully reopened.

Ian Loveridge, local restoration manager, said: “The recent recognition by the government’s x-fund committee that Old Northam Road is an important part of our local heritage and worth saving has really helped galvanise local opinion and boost the confidence of those contemplating investing in the area.”