A VILLAGE pub in Alcester has announced it is closing its doors with immediate effect.
The Golden Cross in Ardens Grafton is set to shut due to financial constraints.
In a statement on social media, owners Laura, Felan and The Golden Cross Team said: “After many months of careful consideration and exploring every possible avenue to remain open, we have made the heartbreaking decision to close with Immediate effect.”
“This has not been a decision taken lightly. The Golden Cross is not only our business but also our family home.
“We have invested everything we could, both financially and personally, to keep it going.
“We have worked tirelessly to find solutions that would allow us to continue trading while causing as little disruption as possible to our children, our staff, and everyone who depends on the pub.
“Despite our best efforts, the reality is that business is no longer financially sustainable.”
The pair put the pressures down to rising operating costs, increased wage bills, higher National Insurance contributions, escalating energy costs, supplier price increases and the ongoing pressures facing the hospitality industry.
They added every possible step to avoid this outcome had been explored.
“We have continued for as long as we responsibly could, but we have now reached the point where carrying on would place an even greater burden on our family and those around us.”
They concluded by saying they were incredibly grateful to their dedicated staff whose hard work and loyalty helped make it what it was and to loyal customers who had become friends of theirs over the years.
“We will always be thankful for the support, kindness, and friendship shown to us throughout the years.
“From the bottom of our hearts, thank you for being part of our story.”
