Staff at ‘The Waterfront’ Hungry Horse restaurant and pub in Southport have thanked customers for their support over the years as they prepare to close their doors for the last time this October.
The venue, on the Promenade, has vowed to “continue to deliver amazing service” until its last service on Sunday, 2nd October 2022.
The site, in addition to the vacant former Genting Casino building next to it, are earmarked for redevelopment by Bliss Investment Partners, which owns Bliss Hotel.
A statement released this evening on behalf of ‘Team Waterfront’ said: “A lot of guests may have heard a rumour or read an article about us permanently closing and we can confirm this is true. We will be closing our doors for good on October 2nd.
“The team are still absolutely determined to deliver the amazing service that we always have and we’d love to see all of our amazing regulars and all the people of Southport (and further afield) again before we close our doors for good!
“I can speak on behalf of every single member of our team when I say we are more driven than ever before to ensure our special pub gives 5 star service every single day from now up until the very end and keep our standards as high as ever!
“I just want to take a second to thank every single person that has been part of this very special journey. From past team members to you regulars and the whole Southport community for all the support you have given the pub over the years. We had so many amazing memories together.
“Some of you may have had birthday celebrations with us or even just the weekly family meal and we have been truly honoured to be part of this community and to be a part of your special occasions. We have had multiple successful MacMillan campaigns in which our team and our community have done some truly outstanding things and raised some large amounts for an amazing cause!
“We have had to change our service times slightly so we are now open 11am-10pm with food service being 11am-9pm.
“We want to see as many as you as possible between now and October 2nd so get booking or just pop in when you have a free evening and we’d be delighted to give you the amazing service we’re known for one last time! It’d be our pleasure.
“See you all soon
“From the bottom of our hearts thank you Southport.”
Southport & West Lancs Camra spokesperson Neville Grundy said: “Southport’s Waterfront pub, the Hungry Horse, is to close. The reason given by owners Greene King is that the lease is coming to an end and will not be renewed.
“There has been speculation for some time that the owners of the building, Bliss Investment Partners, intend to demolish the building and redevelop the site.
“The Hungry Horse is a food-oriented pub serving real ales brewed by Greene King.
“This announcement follows the closure of The Victoria pub just across the road, although its owners, Thwaites Brewery, state they are advertising for a new tenant to reopen it.”
Speaking on The Waterfront Facebook page, Kayley Bissell said: “I’m so sorry to see you go. We were always made to feel very welcome every time we came in. good luck to all the amazing staff.”
Amy MacDonald said: “I’ve not worked here long but the team have been so welcoming and I feel like I’ve made some real friends!!! You’re all amazing people and will succeed in anything you do after this much love.”
Lesley Sherratt said: “We come from Manchester at least 3-4 times a year, and have always enjoyed our meals there. We Will be so sad to see you close. Best wishes to everyone.”
Carrie Cooke said: “Oh no so sorry this is happening to you guys you’re all so lovely and so welcoming your always so busy what a shame thank you for all the happy memories we have had with you wishing all your staff good luck.”
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