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IT's come a long way since it was known as Yew Tree Farm. That was in 1845 and it was converted into the first pub in the area with John Cox as the landlord. The Cricketers Arms in Chestnut Avenue, Eastleigh expanded when neighbouring cottages were knocked together and became part of today's eating area.

And in 1930 the pub had a lucky escape when a large chestnut tree blew down and narrowly missed the building.

It might have changed over the years but The Cricketers has still preserved its rustic charm. It has kept pace with modern times and about 18 months ago £450,000 was spent on a major makeover.

Manager Jason Schinkel, who has been the host at the Greene King pub for the last six years, said: "The whole interior was done out and the pub extended.

"We built on a new kitchen and there is a nice decked area at the back of the pub which seats a 100. That is open but can be covered."

And the smokers have not been forgotten in the new look Cricketers.

Jason said: "We have also built an enclosed smoking area which is heated and seats about 50 people. That has been very popular."

Next year there are plans to extend the car park because trade really is booming at The Cricketers.

Jason said: "When I started here there used to be lot more local trade. Now we get more passing trade and a lot of business people coming in. It has become a destination pub."

Food is served every day between midday and 10pm and the menu is packed with good quality pub food.

Wednesday's curry night and the Sunday Carvery is always very popular and it is always advisable to book in advance.

Although it has a bigger catchment area The Cricketers still has that community pub atmosphere and there is a lot of local support.

A local motor scooter club, called the Eastleigh Spitfires, use it as their weekly meeting place and twice a year there is a motor bike show organised by the Motor Cycle Action Group.

It is a favourite watering hole for many sportsmen and women because there many playing fields in the area.

In the summer The Cricketers do a roaring trade in barbecues and Jason said: "We do a great deal for big companies in the area.

We cater for 300 people from Asda and 250 from B&Q.

"We also do a lot of barbecues for occasions like wedding and christenings."

Beer Festivals have now become a popular fixture on The Cricketers social calendar. Launched five years ago they are held twice a year - Easter and August Bank Holiday.

The next beer festival is from March 21 to 24 and there will be live entertainment.

Dedicated drinkers will be able to sample 25 different ales.

So there will be many pints on the scoreboard at The Cricketers.

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