THE FORMER Forest Inn’s name was not the only thing to change after its takeover by Greene King in 2019 – with the Holt Pound pub’s monthly clairvoyant also moving on.

Given what has happened since, one has to wonder if she saw the A325 inn’s troubles coming!

The pub – now named the Ball & Wicket – closed shortly after it was acquired by Greene King two years ago to undergo a four-month, £500,000 refurbishment.

But as it prepared to re-open, in March 2020 an illegal caravan encampment set up in the pub car park and vandals broke into the pub, smashing glass, windows, mirrors, stealing alcohol, and throwing white paint all over the newly- decorated floors and walls.

This was then compounded by the pandemic, which saw the pub remain closed to the public for another 16 months.

The Ball & Wicket finally reopened on July 5, having undergone further refurbishment – including a newly-landscaped garden and outdoor seating area complete with an al fresco bar, pergola and fireplace.

But in another cruel twist of fate, last Friday the pub was again forced to close its doors after a staff member tested positive for Covid-19.

Announcing the news, manager Dean Oxborough, said: “Unfortunately we have had a positive test result for Covid-19 within our team, and as a result other members of the team have been asked to self-isolate as close contacts.

“Our team and guests’ safety is our priority and therefore, as a responsible business, we have no option but to close immediately until people are able to return to work. We’re absolutely devastated about this, but ultimately everyone’s safety is our priority.”

The Ball & Wicket is Mr Oxborough’s fourth Green King pub, having previously managed pubs including The Waterwitch in Odiham.

Commenting on the pub’s second overhaul in as many years, the manager added: “The garden itself has been completely ripped out and started again, and we’ve done the same inside, stripping it right back to its bare walls.”

He wouldn’t say quite how much the near-two years of refurbishment has cost the brewing giant, other than to say Greene King has been “very generous”!

But looking to the positives, Mr Oxborough added the pub is raring to go once its staff return from self-isolation.

He continued: “Fifty jobs have been created and we anticipate we may need some more because I really do believe the pub will be a big hit and trade well.”

The Ball & Wicket is open seven days a week for brunch, lunch and dinner. Book a table by calling 01483 963161.