IT’S full circle for the manager of the Admiral Sir Lucius Curtis pub in Southampton, as the former city student embraces life in the pub she spent months at, working her way up the chain.

In a pub steeped in history, the JD Wetherspoon now has two main targets to hit; football fans and families.

For the manager, 29-year-old Alex Widdowson, she is enjoying her second stint at the pub, having worked at the chain throughout Southampton ever since coming here to study.

Having joined Southampton University ten years ago, she first worked at The Giddy Bridge before spending time in the Sir Admiral, learning the trade.

Alex, who re-joined the pub in May, says she’s embracing the role as football season comes around once again.

She said: “I love this pub, and I’ve worked my way up the chain in Wetherspoon pubs.

“When the manager here left for a new adventure, I came in to take charge and there’s still some of the same faces as when I was here before, I like to work with regulars and a community feel.”

The historic watering hole is named after the Admiral of the Fleet Sir Lucius Curtis, who was a senior officer in the Royal Navy in the 19th century.

A portrait of the famed officer now sits on the sign outside.

A self-confessed West Ham United fan, manager Alex said that as the new campaign kicks off, business will increase as they welcome both home and away fans, being situated so close to St Mary’s stadium.

She said: “I got a lot of grief the other day as we lost 3-2 to Saints.

“The friendly feel is what we all like here, but of course we also like to create a welcoming atmosphere for families too.

“I’m still finding my feet a little bit, but the staff are brilliant. We have about 30 and we take on a lot of students. That’s how I managed to get where I am today!”