"Watch this space": Popular Southsea pub The Rutland Arms announces reopening date following closure last year

The Rutland Arms, in Francis Avenue, Southsea, is preparing to open after closing abruptly last year following the previous landlady’s eviction due to financial difficulties.

The pub, which is owned by Stonegate Pub Group, has now been taken over by passionate, Joel Wheeler, who is dedicated to injecting a new lease of life at the boozer.

In a previous interview, Joel said: “I’ve been running bars and restaurants since 2014. From to Brighton to Hampshire and now I want to do something for myself and I want to do it for the community as well because I feel that is something Portsmouth is lacking because we don’t have enough community hubs.

“I want to make it a football hub on match days with really good food but I want to make it family friendly and a place where everyone feels safe.

“I am nervous and scared but very very excited and can’t wait to make the community proud.”

The 39-year-old, from Southsea, has now taken to social media to confirm the pub is set to open on February 6.

The post on social media said: “Just 5 days until the launch of the Rutland Arms.

“We’ve been working behind the scenes and we cannot wait to welcome you all. Watch this space… exciting things are coming.”

For more information about The Rutland Arms, click here.