A POPULAR Swindon pub now has a new landlord.

Nick Panterlis is taking charge of The Sun Inn at Coate, off Marlborough Road, which is often the first pub people see after coming into Swindon from Junction 15 of the M4.

Born in South Africa, he worked in a supermarket during the school holidays and his dad owned a bakery - so, as he told the Adver, he's "always been into food and customer service".

He moved to the UK and worked as associate manager at a pub in Lemington before the couple who owned it left and he took charge.

After leaving the hospitality industry for two years, he began to miss his old job and the couple he used to work for mentioned the vacancy at The Sun Inn.

The tavern's previous landlords, Tom and Mairead Titcombe, left to run the newly-opened Strawberry Thief in the Tadpole Garden Village.

Nick added: "I'm loving it, it's very busy, there's a great atmosphere and everyone has been very welcoming.

Swindon Advertiser: The Sun Inn at Coate WaterThe Sun Inn at Coate Water

"The locals and regulars are really pleasant, I'm very happy and enjoying getting to know everyone.

"I joined The Sun Inn on the Monday before the Jubilee weekend, so it was a hectic start but I'm comfortable in a busy environment.

He hopes to host more frequent events along with old favourites like the Rock and Roll Bingo - there's a South Africa-themed barbecue planned for August 20.

The Sun Inn is owned by Arkell's, which launched a new beer at a BBQ held shortly after Nick became the pub's new boss.

The Bavarian-style Rauchbier called Smoky is named after its flavour and is part of the World Beer collection, which takes inspiration from beer styles all over the world.

Nick fired up the grill and seved up a selection of Boerewors, seasoned steaks, cured meats and homemade Biltong.

George Arkell said: “The smoky beer goes perfectly with the amazing BBQ flavours from Nick’s grill – a fantastic pairing for the summer.

“Nick is a wonderful addition to The Sun Inn. His Greek origins paired with his upbringing in South African give him real flair.” 

Swindon Advertiser: Nick Panterlis at The Sun InnNick Panterlis at The Sun Inn (Image: Web)

Head brewer Alex Arkell added: "We’ve sourced some beech wood smoked barley for this beer which imparts a delicious complexity from the blend of sweet and savoury.

"Think perfectly browned bacon or lightly aromatic campfire aromas washed down with a gentle malty best bitter."