The Bradford Arms in Wheaton Aston has shut its doors with immediate effect, its landlady confirming the closure in an emotional Facebook post. The pub's two sister venues - The Bell Inn in Stafford and The Navigation Inn here in Gnosall - are both continuing to trade.
No reason has been given for the closure. However, pub group Stonegate Group, which owns the Bradford Arms, is reported to be keen to reopen it as a going concern, so this may not be the end for the village local.
Landlady Hannah Darrall paid tribute to customers in her post, saying: "The Bradford Arms was more than just a pub, it was a place for family meals, celebrations, laughter, friendships, and memories that will stay with us forever. Although this chapter is coming to an end, our journey continues, and we would be delighted to welcome you at our other pubs The Bell Inn [and] The Navigation Inn, Gnosall. We will also be sharing updates about our new venue very soon."
She also encouraged regulars to visit the remaining pubs in the group, adding that updates about a new venue would be shared soon.
The news drew a wave of sad reactions online, with one commenter saying they were "absolutely gutted" and others recalling fond memories of the pub in its heyday.
The closure comes after continued poor trading and footfall in the hospitality industry, with many blaming Covid and the rising prices of running a pub or restaurant.
Source: expressandstar.com
