AN INTERACTIVE sports bar has swung open its doors to the public after years of preparation.

Sharkey’s Sports Bar in Above Bar Street officially welcomed punters and sports enthusiasts on Friday, June 24.

Daily Echo: Sharkey's director Rod Cake (left) with business partner Leon Lindblad outside Sharkey's, Southampton with Lord Mayor Cllr RaymentSharkey's director Rod Cake (left) with business partner Leon Lindblad outside Sharkey's, Southampton with Lord Mayor Cllr Rayment (Image: Newsquest)

Described as a premier sports venue, the bar, which already has a well-loved home in Bournemouth, is renowned for its large TV screens and plethora of sports available to play.

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Five years on since planning was approved by the council the bar opened its doors after a highly anticipated wait.

Bar director Rod Cake said: “It’s really fantastic to be open as we have worked so hard for this along with our team.

Daily Echo: Inside Sharkey's SouthamptonInside Sharkey's Southampton

“It’s been a hell of a journey and I think the bar looks amazing. We are going to give Southampton something special.”

Rod’s business partner Leon Lindblad added: “Everything has turned out so much better than we thought and we are really pleased.

“Everyone has been so friendly in Southampton.”

Sharkey’s was opened by the Lord Mayor Cllr Jacqui Rayment who described the bar as “something different for Southampton.”

Daily Echo: Inside Sharkey's SouthamptonInside Sharkey's Southampton

She said: “I think the concept of being able to show different sports on different screens in a new, fresh and dynamic environment will be really well received.

“Years ago you would see venues like this but now having something like Sharkey’s back in Southampton will complement the other businesses and bring a different aspect to the night time economy.”

Daily Echo: Inside Sharkey's SouthamptonInside Sharkey's Southampton

Sharkey’s in Southampton boasts over 100 75 inch screens, more than 20 tables, including American, English snooker and table tennis tables, dart boards, a beer pong table, air hockey and table tennis tables.

All of this is complemented by fully stocked bars on each level, PlayStation’s dotted around the bar, and VIP and VVIP rooms.

Rod said: “It really is a social place for everyone; from team building to nights out and hen and stag nights.”

To find out more visit https://sharkeyssportsbar.co.uk/home