A MAN from Hartley Wintney has turned his childhood dream into reality by entering pub business.

The Hare and Hounds pub in Charlton Down Andover has been bought by Rob Aiers, 60, who has had successful careers in aeronautical engineering and marketing.

The Hartley Wintney resident said he went for a pub 30 miles away from his home because of its reputation.

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“I can’t be more ecstatic about this new venture,” Rob said.

“It’s got great grounds, the food is great, and the customers love it.

“When I was in school I was always into food and cooking and I wanted to be a chef. But I was talked out of it by my parents who said I would be working when everyone else is enjoying themselves.

“Since my dad was an engineer, I also followed his path. Although it was a good career, it wasn’t what I really wanted to do. And when you get older you wonder whether you want to go back into a young person’s game. I have now been able to satisfy that by opening the pub.”

Rob officially took over the keys to Hare and Hounds on Tuesday, February 15.

Having grown up in Luton, Rob started his career as an aeronautical engineer in the Royal Air Force.

“I was there for 13 years. When I left I did a marketing qualification and for the next 10 years, I worked in marketing.

“The last job I did in marketing was at Thames Water from where I was made redundant. From there, I built a website on carbon monoxide that offers support to people affected by the deadly gas.

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“It required me to learn a lot more. So we recruited the foremost toxicologist onto our website who was based in America to answer medical questions and a lawyer to answer legal questions. Over time, I also studied law. Now I’m able to attend carbon monoxide cases. That’s how I made money that allowed me to buy this wonderful pub.”

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