Visitors from another country armed with knowledge that the British pub industry is on its knees may be surprised if they take a trip up the A44 towards Woodstock.

On one side there is the successfully revamped Turnpike Inn at Yarnton reviewed here last month and then, just a brisk crawl up the road, stands the Royal Sun at Begbroke.

Both are now attracting hoardes of diners and drinkers, knocking the theory that the days of the British pub are numbered into a cocked hat.

And the reasons for this revival? Sound investment, not just in surroundings but managers and staff, along with a position that can attract locals and passing trade alike.

In the case of The Royal Sun, the transformation has been remarkable.

Seven years ago this place hit rock bottom when the then landlord was hit with a £9,000 fine for poor food storage practices after a visit from environmental health officers.

But its fortunes have been transformed thanks largely to the efforts of Andy and Debbie Jones who have sprinkled a little magic as well as investing a wealth of industry experience.

Many years ago the couple ran the Rose Revived at Newbridge before spending a long time at the Black Horse at Standlake where their Sunday lunches drew punters from Oxford and beyond.

Charged by Punch Taverns with the tall order of turning around the fortunes of the Royal Sun last September, within a few months the crowds are flocking back to the point where, having not booked, the only place we could find to sit was on the bar furniture by the door.

No matter — I would rather sit on the floor than see another closed pub.

And after being greeted warmly by Mrs Jones we already felt right at home in the comfortable surroundings.

Having already checked out the menu online, we had a good idea of our choice but quickly perused the extensive offering once more. I sipped a pint of Hooky Bitter, fresh and hoppy from the Hook Norton Brewery up the road, while my companions chose soft drinks.

Being a little pushed for time we decided to skip the temptations of Bantry Bay Mussels and Tempura Battered King Prawns on the starters list and went straight for the main course.

Going against my usual carnivorous cravings for once, I opted for the fish pie which included smoked haddock, prawns, cod, tuna and salmon in a white sauce topped with potato.

It was supposed to be served with vegetables or salad but deciding it was already a healty choice, I ordered a portion of chips instead.

The pie was tasty and with chunks of fish, although there was perhaps a little too much potato on top for my taste.

Across the table, guest one had chosen a honey roast ham and free range eggs which came served with chips and crusty bread.

A simple dish, but nonetheless one where every mouthful was enjoyed.

Particular praise was reserved for the quality of the ham.

Guest two had the chicken and bacon melt — grilled chicken breast topped with sweetcure bacon and cheddar cheese which was also well received although the chips were swapped for new potatoes.

By this time we had witnessed a steady stream of customers comning through the door, some of whom propped up the bar, while the majority sat down to eat having sensibly booked.

Mrs Jones returned for a chat and told us the place had been transformed to its smart, neutral tones with dark wooden tables and bar.

Particular mention was made of the oak floor which she felt was worth the polishing and indeed possibly dates back to a previous successful era for this hostelry which has been operating since the early 18th century. She also reminded us that the aforementioned Sunday lunches were proving a popular fixture which has guaranteed a return visit in the near future.

While time was tight it seemed rude not to indulge in dessert and I chose a raspberry pavlova while one of the others went for the cool cookie crisp. Both were made from quality ice cream which met with solid approval, although I personally would have preferred far more meringue and fruit.

So for one strip of Oxfordshire at least, there is no mention of doom and gloom in the pub trade. And in the the case of The Royal Sun, such talk would easily be drowned out by the clink of glasses and the clatter of cutlery on plates.

Fish pie: £10.25 Chicken and bacon melt: £9.95 Ham, egg and chips: £7.95 Cool cookie crisp: £4.25 Raspberry pavlova: £4.75 Pint of Hooky Bitter: £3.10 Coca Cola: £1.70 Lime and soda: £1 TOTAL: £42.95

Contact: 01865 374718 Web: www.theroyalsunbegbroke.co.uk