A PUB that has hosted some top-notch A-listers in its heyday has “heartbreakingly” closed after over a century-and-a-half of delighting locals and visitors alike.
The Kirkton Inn has delighted pub lovers in the village of Darymple for over a century, and its sudden closure on Monday, April 28, has sent shockwaves through the community.
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The quirky establishment’s peculiar charm attracted Hollywood royalty such as Michael Douglas and Catherine Zeta Jones who popped in for a drink, it has been claimed.
The hotel and pubs’ parent company, Eurotrade Windows, run by John and Heather Keenan, has been in financial straits for at least two years.
Company accounts show that in December 2023, the firm was almost £750,000 in debt, and lost more than £300,000 that year alone.
Last month, the court ordered liquidators to shutter the picturesque pub, which closed its doors on April 9 and has not reopened.
Dating back to 1875, the building is one of the oldest in the village and has been a community hub for nearly 150 years.
In 2018, the Keenans bought and invested in the pub.
They completely renovated the building, dedicating “their heart and soul” to the family-run venture, which had suffered a few “torrid” years under the management of a brewery.
Regulars lamented the loss on social media despite the pub’s management not announcing the closure.
Bertie Rooney said: “Must be heartbreaking for John and Heather.
“They spent a fortune renovating the Kirkton and the family-run Eurotrade.
“The pub has been trading without a break for over 35 years and has given many a young lad a job over the years.
“I wish them the best in an unfortunate situation.”
Sophie Harrison added: “Our favourite place. So sorry for the staff, Chris was always so great with us.”
Scott Miller said: “Massive blow for Dalrymple as a village.
“Food was lovely, nice restaurant and bar, staff were all great.
“Only negative thing was it was an expensive place to eat, but you get what you pay for.”
Stephanie Leitch said: “Sad news. I can only imagine how hard it is in the hospitality industry these days, especially in small villages. Thinking of the owners and staff going through this tough time. I hope it can reopen one day.”
Fiona Allan added: “This is really sad. Wishing Heather and her family better times ahead.
“I understand they were great employers for their staff.”
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What is happening to the hospitality industry?
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