ONE of Arkell's Brewery's biggest and busiest pubs has a new landlord.

Tennis enthusiast Charlie Hill has taken over well known Lechlade pub – The Riverside Inn.

The Cotswold hotspot, sat next to the River Thames has been handed to 57-year-old Charlie by owners Arkell’s Brewery with an emphasis on becoming a community hub.

Charlie, who has taken over as manager, is keen to establish links with the tennis club and various organisations.

A link that started last year, when the ever popular venue set up the first celebration of the town, its history and groups with Lechlade Day.

The keen manager was previously the Donnington Grove Golf and Country Club bar manager and wedding co-coordinator for 13 years and so has plenty of experience behind the pumps.

"The Riverside is in a beautiful location and can be enjoyed all year long for its wildlife and views” the East End born manager Charlie said.

"We can do so much more here and alongside another Lechlade day I am keen to add in a comedy night, on a Monday and some great live music for Sundays as a wind down from the weekend.

"My first day here saw us do a table of 35 as well as an Environmental Health inspection of our kitchen.

"It was a tough day and a baptism of fire and I am pleased to say that the kitchen team scored a top star rating of five and this is how I wish to progress or it maybe game set and match for me,” he added.

Charlie only took up tennis three years ago but now enjoys playing three to four times a week and is keen to find opponents and similar sports and community minded people in the area,

"Arkell’s and I are keen to bring people together and we have the facilities here to do so.

"I look forward to actually getting involved with the people from the area and learning more about Lechlade.

"For me it was about location, location, location and this is a beautiful area with so much to offer.”