IT IS the pub at the heart of a community.

With history dating back to the 1700s, The Sun Inn in Romsey has been dubbed a “lovely and friendly” pub by locals.

Located on Winchester Road, it has been owned and managed by Carol Rickman for the last seven years.

The 51-year old, who been involved with pubs across the area for all her life and describes herself as “Romsey born and bred”, is supported by 22 members of staff.

As well as running the inn, Carol works as head chef.

The pub is both dog and child-friendly.

Not only does it offer a vegan, vegetarian and gluten-free menu but four-legged friends are spoiled for choice.

The is a “doggy meal” menu with options including sausages, steak and chicken.

The pub boasts a range of entertainment including live music, bingo, and a quiz night.

It features a “comfortable” bar area with “plenty” of beers from around the world along with real ales.

Serving homemade traditional food, there is a beer garden where punters can relax in the sun.

Recently refurbished The Sun Inn can cater to around 100 people with the kitchen open all day

Carol says the Sun Inn is not part of a chain but an independently owned family-run pub.

She also says the pub is a community-focused establishment where you can find lots of locals.

Proud of her five-star hygiene rating, Carol will be starting a “games club” in January.

Running from Monday to Friday between 3pm and 6pm it will be open to anyone feeling a bit lonely to play board games such as chess or monopoly and an opportunity to make friends.

With 157 reviews to its name, the Sun holds a four out of five-star rating on review website TripAdvisor.