The Fusilier, in Forest Hall, Newcastle, put a poster up on its Facebook page informing customers the pub had been sold to a developer, and the business's last day of trading would be on Sunday 24 September.
Staff members apologised to its locals and said that due to circumstances "beyond their control" staff were "gutted to announce an end of an era".
The poster claimed the news had come as a “complete shock”, with staff being “totally unaware of the plans” – this has been denied by Trust Inns, however.
Deeply shocked and saddened
The poster wrote: “As management, we are deeply shocked and saddened by this news.
“The Fusilier has been a part of our lives for many years and we have met numerous lovely people and made many friends, had good times and created many memories.
“May we take this opportunity to thank everyone past and present who has been part of the Fusilier family, for your kindness, help, loyalty, support and friendship.”
Fixture in the community
The poster said the pub will be handed over to Trust Inns and the developers on Monday 25 September.
Talking to the Chronicle Live, pub tenant Ian Macbeth said: “We are just in shock and feel sad. People in the area have been drinking at this pub for years – it’s been a fixture in the community”.
Trust Inns estates director Lyn Perry said: “We are extremely sorry to hear that Mr Macbeth feels this way.
“We have been communicating with him about this situation for a considerable amount of time and we will continue to do so as the process continues.”
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