AN OVERTON pub has been forced to shut its door for good as a result of coronavirus restrictions.

The current owners of the Red Lion, on the High Street, have announced they have had to close - despite only taking over the business in September last year.

In a statement on Facebook, the team wrote: "It is with regret, we are now closed.

"Unfortunately due to the ever-changing restrictions imposed on the hospitality industry we have needed to prematurely negotiate the surrender of the lease of The Red Lion.

"Ant, Jem and the Red Lion team would like to thank the village for all the support over the past 15 months.

"We would have preferred to have left our business with a BANG, but due to the circumstances this time it’ll have to be a fizz… We have loved our time in Overton, and wish everyone here a Merry Xmas and a safe and prosperous 2021."

Many members of the community have reached out with messages of upset and thanks.

One commenter wrote: "You guys have been brilliant. I will miss you all. All the best for the future."

Another added: "Oh my goodness this is so sad. Thank you so much for all the support you have shown me. I will miss you. I wish you all the very best for the future."

A third said: "So, so sad but the pandemic is just too much to beat.

"Thank you for the wonderful service and delicious meals. You will be missed."