A landlady who took on a pub just seven months ago has said a lack of support from the community and a huge fall in trade is behind her looming departure.
Jackie Williams, of Chelmsford, started managing the Lion in Stoke By Clare with her daughter Sophie, who lives in Sudbury, last September following an extensive renovation.
The pub had a warm reception from residents but Ms Williams said over time sales have dropped dramatically.
"Trade has fallen off by about 65% for no apparent reason at all. It has just disappeared," she explained.
"I have been doing some amazing food, having really really good feedback from it, but trade has just dropped off.
"Everyone is telling me all the pubs in the area are suffering the same.
"We're not making money, we're losing money if anything. It is not financially viable."
Ms Williams, who came out of retirement to launch the pub, said her last day of trading will be Saturday, May 18.
The pub has already been listed for rent on Admiral Taverns' website.
Last year, Ms Williams and her daughter took on a two-month renovation of the pub which saw the interior completely repainted and decorated, furniture upholstered and the toilets replaced.
Residents also lent a hand with scrubbing floors and clearing the garden.
"I am disappointed that the local community hasn't supported us, especially after our opening night where we had over 200 people in - we were packed," Ms Williams said.
"Stoke by Clare is a very affluent village. I can't see the residents' finances can be the reason."
A spokesperson at Admiral Taverns said: "We are strong believers in the importance of community pubs and our focus is always on helping our licensees run sustainable pub businesses.
"Inevitably there are instances where we have to part ways with our licensees, however, I'd like to take this opportunity to thank Jackie and Sophie for all their hard work at The Lion and we wish them every success for the future.
"To ensure the pub can remain at the heart of the community, we are currently recruiting for a passionate new licensee to take over so for anyone interested, please get in touch and call 01244 321171."
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules hereLast Updated:
Report this comment Cancel