A MULTI-function pub in Winchester 'has something for everyone' according to local punters.

The Rising Sun in Bridge Street is returning to its previous status as one of the busiest pubs in the city, despite experiencing hard times a number of years ago.

It is currently undergoing a large-scale refurbishment but remains open to the public between the normal hours of 12pm and 11.30pm.

Landlord Rob Plunton took over the pub four years ago as a tenant but has since become an independent owner.

He said: "We have just had a new kitchen installed and the toilets are in the process of being done.

"The pub will have a new garden installed, too, which will have an outdoor TV.

"Everything should be finished by Christmas and I'm looking forward to see how it all looks when its done."

The installation of the new kitchen has allowed Rob to start selling food in the evenings.

Everything on the menu is handmade by the kitchen staff, with dishes ranging from spicy chicken wings to fish and chips.

The Rising Sun also offer a take-away service and will deliver to people who order within 3 miles of the city centre.

BT Sport is now shown in the pub which has proven successful in attracting football fans on match days.

Rob said: "Carlsberg is by far the top seller here, especially on a Monday.

"We have a happy hour during our 'Monday Club' where pints cost £1.99."

The publican also organises special music evenings that take place in the function room.

Celebrity DJ Nicky Blackmarket is the next biggest act to play at The Rising Sun on November 3.

Rob said: "The events we host in the function room draw a lot of people in.

"We are a family venue and get a lot of local families come in here but it's nice to switch things up.

"On a weekend in the evening the pub is at its busiest and people really enjoy the atmosphere."

What do the punters have to say?

Grace Browning, 79, a retired cleaner from Milland Road in Bar End said: "I come here because it's friendly and Rob's done a really good job at doing it up. It just has a lovely atmosphere."

Geoff Roam, 48, a cleaner from Highcliffe, Winchester said: "This place gives me somewhere to go after a busy morning at work. The food since he started doing it has been absolutely brilliant. I really do like it here."

Ken Pettitt, 71, a construction site manager from Lawn Street in Winchester said: "When I moved here, I went into The Willow Tree and didn't like it. My mate told me to come here and I've loved it ever since. This is a proper drinking man's pub."