The Sun in the Sands, Shooters Hill Road

CENTURIES ago The Sun in the Sands was the only dwelling on Shooters Hill Road. And, if the notice on the pub wall is to be believed, it got its name because of the animals being driven down the street. Earth got kicked up by their hooves and feet and the building used to appear like an oasis in a dusty desert.

Five years ago there was no pump beer available when I visited so I had to settle for Guinness and there were lots of buildings and traffic rather than animals on the street.

Last year (normally I visit pubs and write reviews just before you see them in the Shopper but I had to write this in advance because of the party season) they did at least have Best.

As drinks go it was at the right temperature, tasted okay and was priced at only £2.

Sitting reading the paper I glanced around at the people propping up the bar.

They seemed a close-knit bunch and when listening to them I discovered they swear more than me, which is saying something!

The bar staff knew them all personally and were happy to listen to their chit-chat before some of the regulars played pool.

In a set-aside area the tables were pretty busy during my visit, especially compared to ones I have seen in other boozers recently.

I don't know if singing is as popular but a sign on the wall advertising a karaoke evening is an attempt to get different people in.

Hopefully this will inject a bit of atmosphere into the place which lacked the life necessary for me to hang around for more than a pint.