The new managers of a classic Hampshire estate pub are busy making it the hub of the community, welcoming pensioners to warm their cockles there this winter.
Ria Conduct and Aaren Batten have taken over at The March Hare in Harestock and have immediately stepped up to try to help those struggling with the controversial recent loss of winter fuel payments.
They've also carried out a lightning quick ten-day refurbishment, introduced an extensive new menu and announced a series of events for locals to look forward to.
Ria told the Daily Echo: "The cost of living is astronomical at the moment even without this, so we'd like to help people who are feeling the pinch.
"We will have our heating on regardless, so we wanted people to know that this is a safe space where they can come and enjoy soup for £1 and refillable hot drinks.
"We believe in doing what we can as a community pub."
Ria and Aaren, who hosted a family fun day with a bouncy castle and entertainment on their first weekend at the pub in August, have a big Halloween party planned, as well as quiz nights, karaoke and a free pool night on Tuesdays.
The new menu is up and running in the restaurant 'snug' with gigantic Fred Flintstone burgers speared by a 'prehistoric bone', hanging kebabs and roast dinners the biggest hits, as well as some excellent vegan, vegetarian and gluten free options.
The March Hare also boasts a lovely garden.
It's the third pub to be taken over by local entrepreneur Jonathan Spencer. He got the keys to the March Hare in mid August after taking on The Rising Sun in Colden Common last November. He also owns The Dolphin in Hursley.
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules here