The Duke of Edinburgh has been hosting punters for over 150 years. But that will come to an end on March 31, when the doors will close for the last time.

In an announcement on social media, Mark and Allyson Thomson, said: “Bittersweet day today. Arkells agreed we could end our tenancy on March 31st which we are both ready for.

“However, they also confirmed they will be closing the doors on The Duke for good. No matter about our reasons for leaving this news makes us very sad.

“We have made some good friends in the 10 years we have been here, and I guess we thought this would be a pub we would come to and have a beer with said friends.”

The news has upset residents, with many people writing on social media to express their views.

Here are some of the responses.

Eric Morrison: “What a sad ending to the place we’re I had my first ever pint of beer.”

Amanda Jane Syers: “So sad, can't believe no more drinking and chatting with friends in there.”

Carron Payne-Morse: “Omg this pub has been going for years how sad.”

Arkells who leased the pub to the landlords have explained their decision behind the closure.

Managing director George Arkell, said: We are really sad to say that Mark Thomson and his family have decided to give notice to leave The Duke of Edinburgh, Gorse Hill at the end of March.

“We have been looking for a new tenant to take over the pub, since the beginning of the year, but sadly we have not found a suitable candidate to take the pub over and have had to take the tough decision to close the doors.”