A BELOVED pub has announced its shock closure after 16 years.
Devastated punters dubbed the news “heartbreaking”, but understand “health comes first”.
The Plough, in Staining – a village in Blackpool, is closing for good on Sunday, March 9.
Publican Sean, revealed on Facebook a combination of “poor health”, the “cost of living crisis”, and “utilities doubling” in price were all to blame for the closure.
They added: “It’s left me with no choice but to close.”
Despite not having a new owner yet, the publican doubts it’ll take long to find one.
Then they thanked their “loyal customers.”
Sean said: “After 16 years at The Plough, on Sunday 9th I will be closing the doors for the last time!
“It’s not been an easy decision to make but with utilities doubling in price, the cost of living crisis and poor health, it’s left me no choice but to close.
“At present the brewery has no one to take the pub on but I’m sure it won’t be long.
“I would like to thank all my loyal customers and staff for there support over the years!
“Regards, Sean.”
[bc_video account_id=”5067014667001″ application_id=”” aspect_ratio=”16:9″ autoplay=”” caption=”Britain’s retail apocalypse: why your favourite stores KEEP closing down” embed=”in-page” experience_id=”” height=”100%” language_detection=”” max_height=”360px” max_width=”640px” min_width=”0px” mute=”” padding_top=”56%” picture_in_picture=”” player_id=”default” playlist_id=”” playsinline=”” sizing=”responsive” video_id=”6339711979112″ video_ids=”” width=”640px”]Dozens of disappointed pub goers flocked to the comment section.
One person said: “Sad news Sean, it’s definitely difficult out there at the moment, Health comes first as always.
“Will try and call in before you depart, well done Sean.”
Followed by a second: “Sorry to hear this Sean, one of my dad’s favourite places and a lot of memories for me. Take care.”
[boxout headline=”What is happening to the hospitality industry?”]By Laura McGuire, consumer reporter
MANY Food and drink chains have been struggling in recently as the cost of living has led to fewer people spending on eating out.
Businesses had been struggling to bounce back after the pandemic, only to be hit with soaring energy bills and inflation.
Multiple chains have been affected, resulting in big-name brands like Wetherspoons and Frankie & Benny’s closing branches.
Some chains have not survived, Byron Burger fell into administration last year, with owners saying it would result in the loss of over 200 jobs.
Pizza giant, Papa Johns is shutting down 43 of its stores soon.
Tasty, the owner of Wildwood, said it will shut sites as part of major restructuring plans.
Another person spoke of how The Plough was a lifeline for their mum.
They said: “Sorry to hear this, Sean.
“Mum’ll be toasting you on Sunday I am sure.
“She loved the place, it was like a lifeline for her so I have to thank you for everything you did for her and the pub did for her in general.”
Followed by a third person: “Sad to hear this, Sean.
“Thanks to you and Pedro, for all you did to encourage the music on a Tuesday night.
“Sadly Pete and I never managed to come back after Covid, but I have many happy memories of our times spent there.
“Wishing you all the best for the future.”
Then a fifth person said: “So sad, so many happy memories.
“You and Pedro always made us feel so welcome.
“Must have been a hard decision Sean but I’m sure it’s the right one for you.
“If it does get taken over it won’t be the same.
“It’s a sad end to an era for the village, thanks for your hospitality over the years.
“Pete and I and the rest of our family will miss your buffets!!
“Good luck to you and all your staff wishing you all good things for the future.”