A FAMILY-run 16th-century pub in Milborne Port will call last orders in January.

The owners said they took the “agonising decision” to close for a myriad of reasons – not least the increase to their electricity bill which has shot up from £700 a month to nearly £2,000.

They said they couldn’t pass on the cost to their customers through increased drinks prices in “good conscience” and so have announced plans to close.

“It’s with deep sadness and it has been an agonising decision, that we haven’t taken lightly or quickly,” a spokesperson said.

“We regret to announce that from early January we will be calling last orders for the last time.

“Many factors have aided us in this decision, not least of all the never-ending government pressure on our industry to become tax collectors and utilities companies that penalise you for trying.

“Our electricity bill is set to go from £700 a month to nearly £2,000 as there is no government cap on commercial utilities. Until now we’ve been on a locked contract.”

They added: “Increasing [the] cost of a pint to something we no longer feel we can pass on, with good conscience!

“It’s time to draw a line and retire gracefully (ish).

“We thank you all wholeheartedly for all your love and fantastic support.

“To our staff, now and past, for your loyalty and devotion.

“To all the small brewers out there whose beers have been our pride to front, thank you.

“To the market traders who have been with us this past year, thank you. To skittles, darts, and pool teams past and present, thank you. Thank you all.

“We hope you will all join us for a fond and final farewell this New Year’s Eve.”

The pub is hosting a Christmas market from 10.30am to 12.30pm on December 14 and 21, complete with indoor stalls and crafts.

For more information about the pub, visit their website or Facebook page.