Jonny Bramwell has been running pubs almost since he was old enough to drink in them.

The 23-year-old, who has transformed the fortunes of the White Horse in Reading since taking over in 2009, swapped a planned medical career for a life behind the bar at the age of 19.

Now he’s urging others to get to grips with the licensed trade as part of a recruitment drive by his employer Greene King.

The leading pub chain is on the hunt for enthusiastic and hard working people, with a passion for customer service, to become high quality pub managers and follow in Jonny’s footsteps.

After working in a coffee shop, Jonny opted against pursuing a degree in medicine, and was appointed manager of a pub in Devon before moving to his current employer two years ago.

“When I went for interview they noticed I was very young, but they saw something in me and gave me a chance,” he said.

The company’s faith has been vindicated, with “massive growth” at the White Horse.

"Greene King has invested in the pub and they've also shown great faith and invested in me," added Jonny, who trained at pubs in Watford and Reading.

"The key to running a pub successfully is to be ambitious, and have great drive and determination.”

Jonny believes running a pub is about much more than opening up and serving at the bar.

“Leadership and being at the forefront of the business are hugely important – making sure your team know about the beer, the wine and the provenance of the food for example,” he added.

“It’s vital to be a figure who’s out there, talking to customers and taking a lead in all aspects of the business.

“Greene King allows you to put your own stamp on a pub and keep its specific character, which I think is very important. Then it’s down to your own drive and commitment to make it work. If you think you can do it, then go for it.”