THE Bricklayers Arms has been a bit of a family affair for landlady Annie Gibbs.

Annie has celebrated her two-year anniversary as landlady of the Bricklayers in Millbrook, Southampton.

She has worked in the pub trade on and off since she was 18 years old.

The 54-year-old, who runs the pub on Wimpson Lane, said: “I have five children and they have all worked here at some point. Jack my youngest helps with glasses.

“The previous manager asked if I had a licence and recommended me for the position. After an interview, I said ‘yes’ and the rest is history.”

Although the pub doesn’t offer food at the moment, Annie plans to open the kitchen with a view to serving roast dinners.

At weekends the Bricklayers hosts ‘Sunday fun days’ with karaoke performances from 3pm to 6pm in one part of the building, and screens showing football in another.

According to Annie, the pub has run charity events with the Saints Pub, and last year raised nearly £2,000 for childhood cancer charity Abby’s Heroes.

Downstairs, the pub features two separate bar areas: one for drinking and another at the back for entertainment featuring darts and a pool table.

Outside, there is both a garden, which has been used for hog roasts, and a separate area for smoking, while upstairs is privately rented accommodation.

Annie added: “It’s a family atmosphere here, there is a community feel with good company, great beer – and the staff aren’t bad either.

“Everyone shows each other respect in this pub.

“I am really lucky because everyone is so lovely. Staff members are all friends or friends of my children.

“All my family were brought up in Millbrook, I love my job and not many people enjoy getting up in the morning to go to work.”