A HUGELY popular family-run pub is set to say an emotional farewell to punters after failing to stay afloat amid rising rent and energy costs. 

Shekhar and Alex Nailwal, who have run the The White Horse Inn in South Hill, Droxford, for eight years, announced on Facebook they would be shutting the pub at the end of September.

The pair have proved a hit with locals for their distinctive Indian cuisine and takeaway service, alongside their charity efforts.

However, having survived Covid, they admitted to 'running out of answers' for the recent cost of living crisis.

In a post to customers, the couple said: "We will be saying our last goodbye. As you are all aware we have been trying to convince the brewery to reduce the rent as the business is suffering with higher fixed costs. We as a small family-run business can't sustain it as our sales have been hit by inflation rising energy costs - which have almost doubled.

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"We put all our efforts into trying to cut a deal to survive so we can manage this recession, but it failed and I have no other option but to give notice.

"We have been trying our best to keep the business afloat for the past two years, and with the help of our regular customers, we did manage to come out the pandemic. But this crippling recession we have no answer to.

"We will be trying our best to keep the doors open until the end of September, and then I will have to lay off the staff - it's heart breaking.

"I request you all to please support us till then as we are still liable for the overheads and rent.

"Me and my family are very greatful to the Droxford residents. We have been given so much love and affection that we feel part of a big family, and separating from a family is never easy.

"Me and Alex are planning a farewell get together so we can say our goodbyes to Droxford."

Devastated locals took to social media to share their support for the family.

One customer, responding on Facebook, said: "So sorry to hear your news. You have always been such friendly neighbours and we’ve thoroughly enjoyed your food and hospitality. The village will miss you."

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Another wrote: "Absolutely gutted, so disappointed and so sad for you as a family. You have achieved miracles and we are so proud of what you have made. We have introduced so many friends to the wonders of The White Horse."

Admiral Taverns, the Chester-based company which owns the pub, is already advertising for new tenants on its website.

Potential new landlords will have to stump up £27,108 in rent per annum. The UK's leading community pub group has also asked for an initial £12,000 investment to cover the security deposit, working capital and stock. 

In the description, it said there is "huge potential to move towards a more traditional pub food offer", citing the "high proportion of wealthy homeowners" in Droxford during its pitch.

In the meantime, Shekhar and Alex have asked residents to show their support by heading down to the pub for one last bite.