LANDLORDS of a village pub have taken the 'hard decision' to close as it falls victim to the cost of living crisis.

The owners of Old Chestnut Tree Inn, Manor Road, Lower Moor, Pershore, said it would be closing its doors from Friday as it "can't carry on with the energy prices".

The cost of living crisis has seen a variety of businesses across the county close due to not being able to afford the rising bills.

A spokesperson for the family-run pub which dates back to the 16 Century revealed the news in an emotional post on Facebook yesterday (Sunday).

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A spokesperson for the pub said: "We have decided to shut our lovely pub as from Friday. We can't carry on with the energy prices.

"Thank you to everyone who has supported us over the three years we have been here, we have loved every minute of it.

"It was and has been a hard decision to make.

"For a self-owned business, price increases would cripple us completely further down the line.

"Energy increases is not easy for anyone but for a small business it's a make or break situation and it has broken this pub.

"Chain pubs could possibly make it but not self-owned. It's been a blast getting to know you all.

"Hard times call for hard measures and no amount of cutting back will save us."

People shared their disappointment at the news and wished the team all the best for the future.

One said: "Absolutely gutted, great pub and run by lovely people. We’re are going to miss the pub so much and Aid and his lovely team."

Another customer added: "Sooooooo Sorry that you’re closing.

"You really brought new life into ‘The Old Chestnut Tree’ and you will be so missed, thinking of you all and Good Luck for the future."

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Five days ago, the pub announced it would be serving a reduced menu, and planned to revert back to a full menu in February.

Cheese to Please in The Shambles Market Hall announced the cost of living crisis was forcing it to close.

An increase in its energy bills had forced owner Karren Watson to take the decision.

The Leaking Well in Dunhampton, Buddy's Baguettes in The Tything and cake shop Bon Sucree in All Saints Road have all taken the decision to close because of rising bills over the past few months.