IT IS the Eastleigh pub which has been revamped in a bid to become “a real community hub”.

The Good Companions is run by Aaron Dyson and his partner Angela Melton after they took it over last May.

They hope the pub will bring the Eastleigh community together.

Aaron, 48, from Eastleigh, said: “We want to go back to be a proper old fashioned family pub offering good food and drinks. We want the pub to become a place where the community can come together and feel at home. This is what pubs used to be.”

Aaron is also working to complete a children’s play area at the back of the pub.

“This place has never had a children play area before and it’s important to have one to make the pub as family orientated as possible,” Aaron said.

He also added that spaghetti Bolognese is the best seller for kids while adults prefer home-made lasagna and roast.

A special menu for vegetarians and vegans is also available.

Aaron said: “Vegetarians and vegans are becoming more popular and we want to offer a variety of choices to our customers. If we can cater the menu for specific needs we will.”

The menu is changed seasonally based on the products available on the market.

“We adapt the menu on what’s on the market so we can give clients fresh products. We use fresh vegetables and products and we locally source the meat when possible,” Aaron said.

Customers can also choose between a wide selection of drinks which include real ales, lagers and premium lagers, red, white and rose wine and bottled and drafted ciders. Aaron said that Fosters, Birra Moretti and Pinot Grigio are the best sellers.

Every weekend customers also have the chance to enjoy live music and entertainment.

“We want to give local bands a chance to showcase their skills and entertain guests,” Aaron said.

Several competitions are run on the pub Facebook page every month to give residents a chance to win free drinks and free meals.