Owners hope to have closed Northampton pub reopen '˜as soon as possible'

The King Billy, in Kingsthorpe village, ceased trading on Sunday night with landlady Melanie Clare left heartbroken as she took the decision.

But Enterprise Inns said it will look for a new tenant in short order.

A spokesman said: “Unfortunately our venue King William IV is currently closed following the publican’s decision to cease trading.

“We are currently in discussion with them regarding the future of this popular pub, and would like to reassure members of the local community that we aim to have it back open and trading as soon as possible.”

Mrs Clare - who says she is yet to be contacted by Enterprise - reluctantly called last orders for the final time eight-and-a-half years after their names first went above the door.

Factors contributing to the closure included the slow pay-off from the smoking ban, which has encouraged many to drink at home.

And the closure of other pubs in the area has led to the number of darts and other pub sport fixtures at the King Billy declining.