Julie Eagling of The Maypole, Ipswich

A PUB landlady today said she is determined to turn around the fortunes of a Whitton watering hole.

It is just under a year ago since the windows of the Maypole, in Old Norwich Road, were boarded up with signs advising residents that the pub would be closed until further notice.

The Maypole re-opened in May and Julie Eagling took over as landlady about a month ago.

And while business was slow to start with, she is confident it will start to pick up.

“We haven’t done anything major at the moment, we’re still trying to find our feet,” she said. “But the locals are happy the place is open again.

“At the weekends we have a great atmosphere in here.”

“I just want to bring it back to the pub that it was – a proper pub where people can walk in and feel welcomed.

“It’s slowly picking up – it’s just a matter of time.”

The pub has had a new lick of paint since it opened up for business and Miss Eagling is now actively looking to change its fortunes with a number of events already being held to attract families from the area.

Miss Eagling added: “It has had a bit of a bad name in the past with lots of things happening.

“But I won’t tolerate any fighting in the pub or any drugs. I’m trying to get it back to a family pub and a nice friendly atmosphere, which is starting to happen.”

■ Are you pleased to see the Maypole is back in business? Write to Your Letters, Ipswich Star, 30 Lower Brook Street, IP4 1AN, or, alternatively, send an e-mail to starletters@archant.co.uk