PUBWATCH, the group representing Winchester publicans, is to have a new figurehead.

Louise Akers, who manages the Slug and Lettuce in The Square, has chaired it for eight years.

However, she is now moving to Bournemouth, having resigned at Pubwatch’s November meeting.

She said: “This hasn’t been an easy decision. Winchester is a city of great character, but it is time to move on.

“Pubwatch has developed over the years to attract more than 30 licensed members and achieve real status and recognition within Winchester.

“Our campaigns and initiatives have gained respect in sectors of the community who are now partners, many of whom we would never have had the kudos to attract in the early years, such as the Accident and Emergency department and the train station.

“Each new partner has strengthened Pubwatch and helped develop our work further.”

Following her departure, her colleague at the Slug and Lettuce, Richard Collins, will share the role with Alex Vassilakis of the Original Porthouse in Upper Brook Street on a temporary basis.

Pubwatch members will then make a permanent appointment in December.

The scheme is operated by the Winchester City Centre Partnership. Keith Wilson, from the partnership, said: “Louise has gone far beyond that which is expected of the Pubwatch chairperson.

“Her continued drive and enthusiasm for the scheme has seen Pubwatch go from strength to strength, making Winchester a considerably safer place as a result.

“Louise has been great to work with during the two years I have been co-ordinating Pubwatch and I’m sure she will be sorely missed by our members and partners.

“I would like to wish her all the best for the future and thank her for her time and commitment over the last eight years.”