THE Green Dragon pub on London Road has teamed up with Bramshott and Liphook Arts and Crafts Society to stage regular art exhibitions.

The idea was born when Mehmet Balli and his Thai wife Pakaphan Sanpapar, known as Nui, took over the pub last June, after successfully running the Thai Cottage take-away in Bordon.

Mehmet told The Herald: “Our customers commented on the fact the paintings on the walls were quite dull – so I decided to get in touch with Bramshott and Liphook Arts and Crafts Society to organise a rolling exhibition of different artwork, which is also for sale. So far it has proven to be successful and several paintings have been sold since we started exhibiting.”

Bramshott and Liphook Arts and Crafts Society chairman Andy Tubbs and committee member Barbara Morton welcomed the opportunity given to five artists every two months, who are able to exhibit several paintings at a time.

Barbara said: “Mehmet and Nui offer completely free exhibition space to artwork by our 120 members, ranging from traditional to abstract. The Green Dragon is a local pub and these are local artists, which is mutually beneficial. There is always a mix of different styles on show, all originals, and prices range from £30 to £150 for a painting.

“The rolling exhibition started in September 2016 and almost 40 artists have so far been able to exhibit. We also get feedback from Mehmet and his customers, which has been very positive so far.”

Since the couple took over the pub and after a major refit of the kitchen at the end of last year, it now offers authentic Thai cuisine as well as traditional English dishes. They couple’s reputation for quality food and friendly customer service has spread like wildfire across the village.

Nui, who has a degree in home economics, has worked for the likes of The Hard Rock Cafe in Bangkok and several five-star hotels, as well as ­in Edinburgh, Rustington and Weybridge. Her quiz nights are every Wednesday.