The landlords of a High Wycombe pub have spoken out as they close its doors for good due to the ongoing cost of living crisis.

Allan and Julie Daly, who have run The Chequers in Wheeler End since November 2019, announced the Fuller's-owned pub would temporarily shut.

After a tough start with the coronavirus pandemic, the escalating inflation of goods and energy has forced the pair to close down with a “heavy heart”.

They said in a statement: “It is with a heavy heart we have to leave this beautiful pub and close the doors.

“Since taking over this pub back in November 2019 we have had nothing but bad luck and obstacles to deal with, but we managed to all pull together and get through it.

“Covid was the start by closing us down for nearly a year altogether, and then it was a slow process gaining the confidence of customers to come back.”

They went on to add the war in Ukraine and increases in food, fuel, energy and tax have put overwhelming pressure on them.

They added: “The stress of running a business like ours has taken a chunk of us away and the enjoyment has gone. Julie and I need to be happy again.

“Wheeler End and the surrounding areas have welcomed us with open arms and tried to support us in every way possible since we took over this pub, but unfortunately the economy has beat us down.

“Fullers have been amazing and have done everything they possibly can to help us throughout our tenancy and are gutted to see us leave.”

It was confirmed that the pub will be shut for a “short period” as Fullers look for a new tenant.

They continued: “Due to us leaving so soon and not giving them enough notice to find the right tenant they will have to close for a short period.

“I am confident this will only be a short time and the brewery will have a stack of applicants waiting to take this on and give you back your pub.

“We would like to thank each and everyone of you for your continued support and especially our amazing staff that have been here providing a fantastic service to you all.

“Julie will continue to work at the hospital and I have decided to go back to working within the building trade doing bathroom & kitchen refits along with other trades.

“We will be local still so don’t think you’re getting rid of us.

“Again, thank you each and everyone of you for your support and we are sorry for the short close down of the pub.”