A HISTORIC Wirral pub is at risk of closure.

The Black Horse Hotel has been situated on School Hill in Lower Heswall since 1836 but due to the cost of living crisis and rise in energy bills the pub now faces an uncertain future unless there is a significant upturn in trade.

Pub landlord, Wayne Moore handed in his notice at the pub after four and a half years due to it not being a “viable business” anymore.

He told the Globe: “The pub doesn’t have the people coming in it’s not supported. I’m hoping the brewery will get someone and keep it open. I will stay there as long as I possibly can, but it depends on trade.

“I’ve worked there for over four years, and it’s been a hard slog. It’s really difficult when it just doesn’t make enough money.”

After years of intermittent Covid lockdowns and social restrictions followed by surging costs and falling sales, many pub and bar companies in the area have been forced to close.

Wayne said: “It’s more expensive to run a pub anyway with the heating and electricity and gas bills they’re ridiculously expensive. It’s not a viable business anymore.

“Especially with the cost-of-living crisis people have changed their habits of going out for food and drinks.

“We had to stop serving food in November last year because not enough people were coming in.

“It’s very disappointing I’m sad for the regulars who have supported us for the last four and half years.

“The pub has been there since 1836 and for it to potentially left to ruin or develop into something like flats would just be criminal but there’s just no backing, support or help from the locals in the lower village."

A spokesperson for Star Pubs & Bars said: “The current licensee has advised us they intend vacating The Black Horse Hotel.  We are in the process of looking to recruit a new operator to take the pub on. 

"The intention is to continue to run The Black Horse Hotel as a community local.  Anyone who is interested in leasing the pub should call our recruitment line on 08085 949596 or visit www.starpubs.co.uk.”