A MUCH-LOVED Runcorn pub is closing due to rising costs.

Landlords of the Union Tavern on Union Street say it is with ‘with a sad heart’ that they have had to give up the pub.

The community pub pulls its last pint today.

Posting on social media, they said: “With a sad heart, we have given our notice in at the Union Tavern Runcorn, but we are closing the doors from today, as it’s not sustainable financially for us to run.

“Thank you to all that have come through the doors over the last twelve months and we wish you all the best.”

Regulars say they are sorry to see the landlords go and wish them ‘good luck in their new venture’.

The pub hosted lots of community entertainment, games and activities including darts, a quiz night, karaoke and children’s Christmas party.

The tavern had recently been refurbished but still retained its little separate rooms.