Punters have been assured that a historic Congleton pub won't stay closed for long.

Punch Pubs has shared an update following the announcement that The Castle Inn is set to close.

Current landlord Josh Adams only took over in April but is due to depart after service this Saturday (July 19).

However, the national pub chain has said getting it back open is their 'top priority'

Harry Bourne, operations manager at Punch Pubs, said: "Following a short tenure at The Castle Inn, we can confirm that Josh, Jayne and Alex

"have made the decision to step away from their pub business. We would like to thank them for their hard work and wish them all the very best for their future endeavours.

"The Castle Inn will temporarily close this Sunday, July 20, until we recruit new publicans to oversee its long-term success.

"We understand how much the pub means to the Congleton community, and we want to reassure everyone that reopening the Castle Inn and welcoming guests back to their local is our top priority.

"We encourage anybody interested in this opportunity to contact our recruitment team on 01283 501999."

The Castle Inn will close after service this Saturday, July 19 (Credit: The Castle Inn)

News of the impending closure was announced earlier this week.

A chalkboard set up at the pub read: "Dear friends, patrons and our beloved community.

"The time has come to close the door of the Castle Inn.

"Thank you to everyone who supported us.

"Our last service will be this Saturday.

"So join us one last time before we vacate."

Josh, who was previously executive chef at Mottram Hall, added: "It's bittersweet to say goodbye - we're sad and devastated to be going, but it has been an absolute joy and honour cooking for you and welcoming those who chose to support us with open hearts."