THE new owners of a Poulner pub say it was “meant to be be”.

Phil Hoyle and his fiancé Sarah have purchased the The London Tavern pub in Poulner, Ringwood.

It’s a familiar inn for couple who live locally and have been regular patrons for years.

Phil, who is highly experienced in the pub and entertainment industry, is promising good food, good beer, good company and plenty of live events.

He said: “When the opportunity came along to buy the pub it seemed as if it was meant to be.”

Phil said: “Families are welcome and just like the very first landlord we always have brandy available should anyone need it!”

The tavern dates to the 1860s when Mr Robberts who lived in what was then a house failed to acquire any brandy in the vicinity for a lady who was taken ill.

Angry that he could source none of the medicinal liquor, he opened a pub in his home.

Having connections with the capital and being known as ‘Johnnie Londoner’, he named the pub The London Tavern. It has been dispensing drinks ever since and the new owners are proud to be carrying on the tradition.