A LONG-standing pub in Ringwood has closed following a 'difficult decision' made by the landlord.

The London Tavern in Linford Road welcomed its last customers earlier this week before closing its doors.

Landlord Phil Hoyle said: “After five wonderful years at The London Tavern I have made the difficult decision not to renew the lease.

“Running a pub is extremely hard these days - my energy costs went up from £800 a month to £6,000 a month.

“And with Covid debts, wage bill and competition from supermarkets it has become even harder in the last couple of years.

“I also have a serious health issue which requires me to rest for two months, after which I should be back to full health.

“I want to thank all the regulars and visitors for their custom and friendships.”

The London Tavern was opened in the 1860s by John Roberts.

The story behind its start up is displayed on a placard outside the pub: "Apparently Mr Roberts heard the story of an elderly local lady who had been taken ill and a group of people had been dispatched to the White Hart at Poulner to purchase some brandy for medical purposes.

"The licensee there refused to oblige as it was late at night and 'was not prepared to come downstairs for anyone, living or dying'.

"Being a fair minded man, Mr Roberts was outraged by this behaviour and decided to open a bar in his own house, this he did after obtaining the necessary licence from the local police superintendent."

Since then, The London Tavern has become the hub of the Ringwood community, with its regulars and visitors quick to express their upset of its closure on social media.

One said: "Thank you to a brilliant landlord for all he did for our community. The London Tavern we will miss you and there will be no other pub like it. Sorry Tav Team - you will always be the best."

Another said: "A great local pub with traditional values, loved every visit here, always made me feel very welcome as an outsider."