People in Eaton are lamenting the unexpected loss of a popular pub that has suddenly closed.

A sign appeared outside the Cellar House pub in Eaton Street yesterday stating that it was closed until further notice.

Paul Malynn has been the leaseholder at the pub for about four years and was still at the pub today, although he did not wish to comment.

The news has come as a blow to many people in Eaton including ward city councillor Caroline Ackroyd.

She said: 'I'm amazed and shocked that it has closed. We probably eat in there once a fortnight. We were there last Thursday and it was full.

'The food is good, there's a good atmosphere, and it's a good resource for the community.

'They have done a lot recently to get people in to the pub. When Norwich City play away they always show the matches at the pub. It's a very well thought of pub and I hope that it will reopen.'

Another Eaton resident, who did not wish to give his name, was equally disappointed at the news.

He said: 'We are all very upset about it. I cannot remember it ever being closed before. It's the end of an era really.

'The landlord spent a lot of money there. It was particularly popular with more elderly people. We will have nowhere to watch the Norwich City matches now.

'It's another watering hole that has gone. But it's too good a business not to reopen.'

The news was particularly devastating to Simon Devlin who booked a Valentine's meal at the pub for tonight.

He said last night: 'They have just called to say that they will not be open as the pub is shutting down until further notice and gave no other reason why. Bet I'm not the only one now desperate to rebook.'

The Evening News has been urging people to return to pubs in our Love your Local campaign.

To see more stories from the campaign visit www.eveningnews24.co.uk/loveyourlocal.