A pub which claims to be the oldest in England is to close down because of financial pressure caused by the coronavirus pandemic.
Ye Olde Fighting Cocks in St Albans is closing its doors “with great sadness” after entering administration.
The Hertfordshire venue was built in the 11th century, although the pub's own history says it dates back as far as 793.
Landlord Christo Tofalli said in a Facebook post: “It is with great sadness that I have to announce that today, after a sustained period of extremely challenging trading conditions, YOFC Ltd has gone into administration.
“Along with my team, I have tried everything to keep the pub going. However, the past two years have been unprecedented for the hospitality industry, and have defeated all of us who have been trying our hardest to ensure this multi-award-winning pub could continue trading into the future.
“Before the pandemic hit, the escalating business rates and taxations we were managing meant trading conditions were extremely tough, but we were able to survive and were following an exciting five-year plan and were hopeful for the future.
“However the Covid-19 pandemic was devastating and our already tight profit margins gave us no safety net. This resulted in us being unable to meet our financial obligations as they were due, creating periods of great uncertainty and stress for all who worked for, and with, the pub.
“It goes without saying I am heartbroken: this pub has been so much more than just a business to me, and I feel honoured to have played even a small part in its history.
“I am even more heartbroken for my incredible team and the wider Fighting Cocks family.”
Covid restrictions have forced pubs throughout the country to close for long periods and Christmas trading was greatly affected in 2021 by the Government's Plan B measures, which discouraged mass gatherings as the Omnicron variant swept through the UK.
The hospitality sector has been particularly hard hit, with Wetherspoons announcing record losses last year.
“I would like to thank my loyal staff, all the visitors to the pub, particularly the regulars, but also those from all over the world, the suppliers, the bands and musicians who have played here, the St Albans community and my friends and my family, for all their love and support for the last ten years,” Christo added.
“I am currently working with the brewery, Mitchell and Butler, to lessen the impact of the closure of Ye Olde Fighting Cocks as we go into administration.
“I would really appreciate that my staff and I are given the respect and privacy we need at this very difficult time.”
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