A PUB has closed its doors 'until further notice.'

The Stagger Inn, on Long Lane in Stainton, has been closed with no date given for the pub to be reopened.

The pub is currently owned by Lucidity Group, which also has The Dunes Hotel and The Townhouse on Dalton Road in Barrow.

The company has confirmed that while the pub has closed, all full time staff have been retained and will continue to work elsewhere within the group.

A spokesman for Lucidity Group, said: “The Stagger Inn has been closed until further notice.

“We have retained all full time staff within the group.

“We continue to develop Dunes Hotel where landscaping continues to progress, our new Bridal Suite and Guest Bathrooms refurbishment programme is ongoing, as well as our guest bedrooms at The Townhouse."

He added: "Staff training is being implemented to ensure a consistent high standard of Guest services, which will help us achieve a 4 Star accreditation with the AA.

“As a company, we continue to monitor the various challenges Brexit may, or may not present to the hospitality industry, but we are confident enough to continue investment within the Group.”

He went on to say, if the Stagger Inn does reopen, it would be refurbished.

The news has been greeted with sadness from local councillor James Airey.

Mr Airey, who lives in nearby Urswick, said: “At the end of the day, if the Stagger Inn does not reopen then this would be another vital county asset lost.

“It is a well-thought of pub and eating house in a rural location, one which has already seen the closure of the Derby Arms.

“I know residents are fighting to get the pub reopened and I’m sure the people of Stainton will want to see the same for the Stagger Inn."

He added it was vital rural pubs like the Stagger Inn continue to operate and offer nearby residents a place to gather and spend time together.

He said: “It is a very sad day, I hope the Stagger Inn reopens soon.

“We need to make sure we make use of these kind of services to keep them open in the future.”