AN EMOTIONAL mum told a public inquiry into the future of a Southampton pub that she could “burst into tears” at the strength of its community.

As reported, the inquiry was called after fast food chain McDonald’s launched a bid to demolish the Bittern pub on Thornhill Road and build a two-storey restaurant in its place.

Regulars and nearby residents have criticised the plans to close the pub, which has been open since the 1930s.

On the second day of the hearing, mum-of-four Samatha Larkman told Government-appointed inspector Lloyd Rodgers that she and her autistic son Billy had been touched by the kindness of the pub’s customers after they bought loom bands he had made.

Samatha, who does not drink, said: “I could burst into tears at how good that made my son and me feel as a mother.

“I go there for the socialising because I can go in there with my son and relax a bit.

“The pub is not what it’s about – it’s the community within the pub.”

The fast food giant had an initial application denied by Southampton City Council and has appealed the decision.

The inquiry at Southampton Civic Centre was adjourned and will reopen on April 9.