A VILLAGE pub taken over just two months ago has closed.

A licensee is now currently being sought to reopen The Ship Inn in Wylam.

It comes after the Drummond Pub Company, spearheaded by Peter Drummond, announced it would not be renewing the lease.

The popular pub, which also has six bedrooms, was taken over by Peter, formerly of The Badger in Ponteland, in July.

At the time, he told the Courant that his vision was to have a chain of country pub restaurants which serve cold beer, hot food with great service at a good price.

But in a statement on social media, Peter, who also runs the Engine Inn in Walbottle, said: "Unfortunately today (Wednesday), we closed our doors as our temporary lease came to an end.

"We have decided not to stay on at the Ship, however, we would like to thank all our lovely customers and new friends we have made over the last few months.

"Hopefully the pub will reopen at a later date and with the correct investment and direction, this beautiful premises will be a lively offer for your beautiful village once again.

"Thank you."

Former tenants Paul and Kelly Johnson left the Main Road pub in February after five years at the helm.

The couple blamed their departure on the rising costs facing the industry, including rent, food and alcohol, but they were also expecting a baby.

The pub is owned by Star Pubs and Bars.

A spokeswoman for the company said: "Our aim is to reopen The Ship as soon as possible and to that end, we are working hard to find a suitable licensee to run it on a temporary basis until a long-term licensee is recruited.

"The Ship has a fantastic reputation for its outstanding food and drink as well as its boutique letting rooms and lovely garden.

"As such, it is popular with local residents and is a destination for people from much further afield."

Anyone interested in leasing The Ship should call the Star Pubs and Bars recruitment team on 08085 949596 or visit https://www.starpubs.co.uk/pubs/ship-inn-wylam