One of Brighton’s best-loved pubs is set to close at the end of the month.

Regulars say The Greys pub in Southover Street, Hanover, is shutting because of problems between the owners and the pub company leaseholders, Enterprise Inns.

Owner Chris Beaumont and Enterprise Inns refused to comment on why the popular watering hole was closing.

The much-loved venue has built up a reputation for being one of the best places in Brighton for beer, food and live music and is recommended by various critics and guides, including Egon Ronay and the AA.

Neighbour Stella Sims has been drinking at the pub for seven years. In a letter to Enterprise Inns she said she was “disgusted” that it had not done more to allow the current leaseholders to continue their “sterling work”.

'Heartbroken'

She told The Argus: “I and many others are heartbroken that one of the best-loved pubs in Brighton is closing. It is truly irreplaceable.

“But what is also most shocking is that this is a pub that’s been held as succeeding despite tough times for the pub industry, through the hard work and ingenuity of the owners Chris, Gill and the staff.”

Musicians such as Gene Parsons, Woody Mann, Arthur Brown and Georgie Fame have all graced the stage at the pub, while regulars from the past and present include Mark Chadwick from The Levellers, Gaz Coombes from Supergrass and the author Pete McCarthy.

Enterprise Inns refused to confirm why the current owners were leaving, but did say they were talking to potential new landlords.

A spokesperson for Enterprise Inns said: “We have a new publican looking to take over The Greys at the end of October.

“They are aware of the heritage and reputation of the existing business and they will be reintroducing food which has long been a critical part of The Greys offering.”

Country band Mountain Firework Company will play the last ever gig at the pub on Saturday, October 13.

Mr Beaumont and Gill Perkins have owned The Greys since 2003.

See the latest news headlines from The Argus:

More news from The Argus

Follow @brightonargus

The Argus: Daily Echo on Facebook - facebook.com/southerndailyecho Like us on Facebook

The Argus: Google+ Add us to your circles on Google+