Much-loved Leyland pub announces closure as pandemic throws 'cruel blow' to business

The pub, on Hough Lane, has continued to try and stay afloat during their closure, offering delivered evening meals and Sunday roasts.

And they were among those offering the 'eat out to help out' scheme back in July.

However, it was announced yesterday that the pub would be closing permanently after the owners couldn't "see any possible recovery for at least 12 months."

A statement for the pub, owners Alan and Ruth said: "It's with terrible sadness that we write this post. As you are all aware, 2020 has been a very tough one for everyone and with this in mind, we have had to let the pub go earlier than we intended.

"We cannot see any possible recovery for at least 12 months and cannot continue with the high overheads and no income. We would like to take this opportunity to thank you all from the bottom of our hearts for support over the last six years and please know that we will miss you all very much.

"We wish all small businesses and suppliers in Leyland the very best of luck."

Pubs have faced difficulties during the pandemic, along with restaurants, bars and cafes that all had to close their doors for the second national lockdown.

Prior to this, hospitality businesses had a strict curfew of 10pm, introduced in a bid to curb the spread of the virus.

In an outpour of support on Facebook, customers hailed the Leyland venue as a "cracking pub", saying they did the best they could at keeping Covid-secure "under the circumstances".

One comment said: "I am so so sorry to hear this. You have battled on with no help whatsoever."

Another read: "Such a shame, it is a cruel blow for all businesses and you guys did more than many others to stay safe. You've been fab and made us some great food and had some good laughs along the way."

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