THE future of one of the oldest pubs in the New Forest has been secured.

As previously reported, the landlords of the Fleur De Lys in Pilley were in a row with pub giant Enterprise Inns that put the pub’s future in doubt.

Sallie and Paul Adams, who run the popular watering hole, told how they were ordered to pack their bags after they were unable to pay the rent.

But now an 11th hour deal has been thrashed out thatmeans they can keep running the pub.

The Fleur De Lys is believed to be the oldest pub in the New Forest and dates back to the 12th century.

When the couple took charge in spring 2013, the grade II listed building needed a range of repairs.

These included a leaking thatched roof, mould and interiors that were unpainted.

They also claimed that Enterprise are making them pay rent for the upstairs area which is ‘condemned’ and deemed uninhabitable as it does not have a fire exit or any smoke alarms – which they say Enterprise knew about but did not tell them.

Agreement Ultimately the couple believed this has cost them thousands of pounds, which has seen them fall behind on their rent.

But now the new agreement will mean that the couple can pay back the rent in instalments, work will be carried out to repair the thatch in March and now other work to ensure that health and safety precautions are put in place will mean that upstairs can be lived in.

Mr Adams said: “I am very pleased everything has been sorted out.

“This is a new start for us. We are really glad that Enterprise have listened to us.”

“We have lots of ideas on what we are going to do this year and we are just so happy that we can stay here as landlords.”

Enterprise Inns, said: “We are currently in discussions with the publicans of the Fleur de Lys and we continue to work with them to reach a mutually satisfactory outcome.

“The Fleur de Lys is a historic building in a great location and we are committed to ensure it continues as a charming local for the village of Pilley."