A NEW pub opening in Southampton today has created 30 new jobs in the city centre.

The Australian theme Walkabout Inn has opened for business in the former home of the Bank of England in High Street and is part of a national chain owned by Regent Inns.

Walkabout manager Mark Arneil has been on the recruitment trail since he took over on site last autumn and said that the right staff were essential for the new Southampton venture.

"The hours are long and the work demanding, especially when the bar is really busy but the job should be fun and I have a great team working for me who are now fully trained and ready to go.''

Mr Arneil has been in the leisure industry for the last 14 years working in pubs, hotels and as a resort manager.

The bank's old premises have under-gone massive refurbishment under a £1.5 million contract.

The company says everything from the food, drink and entertainment in the new pub is to be based on the southern hemisphere.

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