Sadness as historic riverside pub in Norwich closes suddenly
Gibraltar Gardens. Photo: Bill Smith - Credit: Archant © 2012
Customers at one of Norwich's most historic pubs have expressed their sadness after its owners announced its sudden closure.
Happier times: Evie and Tim Rood in 2012. Photo: Steve Adams
Evie and Tim Rood took over as landlords of the Gibraltar Gardens, a riverside pub off Heigham Street, in 2012 after moving from Southampton, where they previously ran a pub.
On Friday, they announced on the pub's Facebook page that they were closing the pub on that day.
The message said: 'To all our customers... It is with great regret that we have decided to leave the Gibraltar Gardens as from today. We have had a lovely two and a half years! Anyone who knows Evie and Tim know they put their heart into the pub and did the best they could.'
The message blamed owners Enterprise Inns for the closure. The company did not response to requests for comment.
The posting also thanked customers, and staff who had worked at the pub over the years.
It added: 'Finally thank you to all the friends we have made on the way it helped make the move to Norwich a lot easier.'
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When contacted, Mrs Rood said she was unable to comment on the closure. However, patrons paid tribute to the landlords in dozens of messages on Facebook.
Lucy East wrote: 'This is such a shame especially after all the hard work, time and money you have put in.'
Laura CoCo wrote: 'Some wicked memories made down this pub. Well done for trying your hardest to keep it running tho. Take care.'
The pub is also a wedding venue, and some people expressed thanks for their wedding days.
The building, which dates back to the late 15th century, has had grade II listing since 1954.
The Evening News has been urging people to return to pubs in our Love your Local campaign.
What do you think? Write (giving your full contact details) to: The Letters Editor, Norwich Evening News, Prospect House, Rouen Road, Norwich NR1 1RE or email eveningnewsletters@archant.co.uk
