BRITAIN’S oldest pub has called time after more than 1,000 years — due to the Covid pandemic.
Ale was first served at Ye Olde Fighting Cocks in 793 but it has been unable to withstand the struggles of the past two years.
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Britain's oldest pub Ye Olde Fighting Cocks has called time after more than 1,000 years Credit: gavin rodgers/pixel8000
The boozer in St Albans, Herts, has survived wars, plagues and previous economic crises.
But landlord Christo Tofalli said he was walking away because the pandemic had been “devastating”.
He added: “I have tried everything to keep this pub going.
“However, the past two years have defeated all of us who have been trying our hardest to ensure the pub could continue.
“It goes without saying I am heartbroken.
"This pub has been so much more than just a business to me.”
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Mr Tofalli’s firm has been placed into administration.
"The owner of the building, Mitchells and Butlers, has said it will try to find a way to reopen in the future.
The pub is recognised by Guinness World Records as Britain’s oldest, although others also make the claim.
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Ale was first served in the St Albans boozer in 793 but the pub has been unable to withstand the struggles of the pandemic Credit: gavin rodgers/pixel8000 4
Landlord Christo Tofalli said he was walking away because the pandemic had been 'devastating' Credit: gavin rodgers/pixel8000 4
The boozer is recognised by Guinness World Records as Britain’s oldest although others also make the claim Credit: gavin rodgers/pixel8000