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Historic Blackpool pub shuts
ONE of Blackpool's most historic pubs has shut.
Raikes Hall on Liverpool Road, a Grade II listed building, closed after last orders on Saturday.
Licensees Adrian and Jeanette Clay threw a farewell party for regulars on Sunday, but since then the hostelry has been closed.
Mr Clay, who took over the tenancy with Jeanette two years ago, blamed financial difficulties for their decision to close.
He said that although the pub's turnover was strong, other factors, including the cost of buying beer from Trust Inns, which owns the premises, made its prices uncompetitive.
He said: "We didn't go without a fight but last week we tried to extend our overdraft and were refused by the bank.
"It made us look at the whole situation and come to the conclusion that we had to stop now, no matter what it cost.
"The Raikes had a high turnover but with other costs, including rent, the high beer costs and with utility costs doubling, we couldn't carry on.
"We have also suffered because The Raikes has the biggest beer garden in Blackpool and we have had the two worst summers.
"The smoking ban also hasn't helped.
"On Sunday we invited regulars to a farewell party.
"It was a sad day and tears were shed but they are aware of our difficulties and how we have tried over the years.
"Anyone who has bookings should get in touch with us as soon as possible as we have got contingencies in place to help them."
The closure has also led to the loss of eight jobs.
The Raikes building dates back to the 1800s and boasts its own enclosed bowling green.
"It has also been a popular live music venue.
Mr and Mrs Clay took it over after five years in charge at the Litten Tree in Queen Street, Blackpool.
Mr Clay is now managing The Sandhills in St Annes Square while the future of the Raikes now looks unclear.
The pub was among those purchased by Trust Inns from Mitchells and Butler in 2006.
No-one from Trust Inns was available to comment.
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Weather for Blackpool
Saturday 26 May 2012
Today
Sunny
Temperature: 12 C to 24 C
Wind Speed: 18 mph
Wind direction: East
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Temperature: 14 C to 23 C
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