AROUND the middle of the 19th century there were over 50 public houses in Andover.

The Rose and Chequers (of which you published a 1900 image) was just one. It stood on the site of the now vacant Tesco store. The pub sign was a chequers board with a beautiful five segmented rose set in the centre.

Throughout its history the establishment enjoyed a colourful reputation with name changes along the way – originally “Ye Chequers” and possibly “The Market Inn”, much frequented by the local farming community, and for a second time The Rose and Chequers. However, when John Culling became landlord in the late 19th century he changed its name to the Cullings Hotel as your picture shows. It soon became a high class eatery for John Culling was an excellent chef and caterer. He was always asked, each year, to provide for the annual Mayoral banquet held at the nearby Guildhall.

John was also a fine dancer.

His wish was to encourage others to enjoy this pastime.

He built a dance hall at the rear of his hotel and until recently it still stood. This was the Waverley Hall.

Visiting football teams playing Andover Town used the hostelry as their changing room. There was no facility at the Walled Meadow at this time and the visiting teams, once in their kit, would run across the High Street, up the George Yard, over East Street and along Eastfield Road!

Win, lose or draw I expect the players looked forward to something appetising on their return!

John Porter, Millway Road, Andover