A Lancaster licensee has announced he will be moving on from his current quayside pub to take over behind a different bar in the city centre.
Bill Johnston will be leaving the Wagon and Horses on St George's Quay and will instead become boss at the Tap House on Gage Street.
Mr Johnston had been in charge at the Wagon since September 2022, after previously being at the helm at the Canal Turn in Carnforth.
Prior to that, he worked as station director at The Bay radio.
Mr Johnston said "rising costs, particularly crippling energy bills" were behind his decision to leave the Wagon and said that his own company will cease trading.
The Wagon and Horses will remain open under temporary management.
In a statement on the Wagon and Horses Facebook page, Mr Johnston said: "Sadly my company will cease trading on Monday January 8 when a temporary operator takes over.
"With ever rising costs across everything, particularly the crippling energy bills, I need to call it a day.
"It's a real shame and I'm gutted after pumping so much money, time and energy into this beautiful venue.
"All of my wonderful staff will be protected under TUPE (Transfer of Undertakings - Protection of Employment regulations) when they transfer over on 8th January.
"On top of my team, my priority is to ensure that all local suppliers have been or will be paid up to date.
"As part of the change of hands, our last day of trading will be Saturday 6th January but we need to close on Sunday 7th January when the final move takes place.
"There may be some disruption with the change of hands but the Wagon and Horses will remain open for the community - hotel and food reservations are still being taken.
"Thanks so much to all of our wonderful customers who have supported my business in the last 16 months (or six years including from my previous site). I've met so many wonderful people and many will be long-term friends. Thanks also to the incredible musicians who have entertained you all.
"Karla and I will be moving to The Tap House, Lancaster.
"It's currently closed but we'll be reopening it as a lovely bar and live music venue by the end of January. We hope to see you there if you're passing."
The Tap House is owned by Chorley-based Trust Inns,
Read more: Former radio station boss takes over Lancaster pub - Beyond Radio
Beyond Radio 10th birthday: How it all began
Morecambe social club to close for urgent safety works
44 new homes on land close to Lancaster city centre given thumbs up
Campaign launched by Overton villagers to save popular postman
Silverdale and Arnside protected landscape awarded £1m lottery funding
New technology aims to improve efficiency and patient experience in Morecambe Bay’s hospitals
Morecambe FC to allow fans to drink alcohol in view of pitch during matches
Calls made for "clear alternative" when Lancaster Library shuts for months
Paintings from Lancaster based artist go on display at Masterchef star’s restaurant
LISTEN: Police cadets and artists begin work on new mural to spruce up Lancaster crime hot-spot
Lancaster Canal may have to temporarily close due to low water levels
Royal Lancaster Infirmary staff climb Lake District peaks to support hospital charity
Police and partners step up efforts to tackle business crime in Morecambe
Light Up Lancaster promises to illuminate city with ‘No Boundaries’
Time running out to have your say on new waste strategy in Lancaster district
Beyond Radio 10th birthday: Special live radio show celebration announced
REVIEW: Hilarious Robin Hood park show in Lancaster hits the bullseye for laughs
Road closure info as filming of The Bay TV series continues in Morecambe and Heysham
Four fire engines called to derelict building fire in Lancaster
Activity on Eden Project Morecambe site ahead of garden build
