The Jolly Carters managers announced they were shutting the Little Lever pub with ‘immediate effect’ in a lengthy post. – with Stonegate now looking for new landlords to run the pub.
The Jolly Carter in Little Lever, Church Street, has been described as “a local community hub” by Stonegate.
It was announced on Tuesday, April 1, that the current licensees were “no longer in a position to run” the pub.
The post states: “It is with sadness that we must inform all of our customers that with immediate effect we will no longer be in a position to operate The Jolly Carter.
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“Unfortunately, this is due to various reasons including high cost of rent, high cost of purchasing tied products from the brewery, the extremely high cost of providing Sky and TNT and other silly services.
“The trade has not been as anticipated, and at its current levels, the business is in decline and losing money every day.”
Stonegate says the forecast turnover per year is £498,539 with a guide rent of £634 per week.
It adds: “We know this will come as a blow to the community and we hope somebody soon will pick up the rains and deliver The Jolly Carter to all locals and guest in the way it deserves to be delivered.
“For those who supported us on a regular basis, we would like to give you our sincere thanks. We wish all of our customers, our staff and The Jolly Carter as a whole the very very best for the future and hope this business can once again become the heart of the community.”
A Stonegate spokesman said: “I can confirm that we are currently looking for a new publican for the Jolly Carters in Little Lever.”
Stonegate’s website states: “Ever dreamt of being your own boss, running a thriving pub, and shaping a vibrant community hub?
“Partnering with Stonegate, the UK’s largest pub company, makes that dream a reality. We offer the best of both worlds: self-employment with the unwavering support of a dedicated team, from regional managers to a network of experienced publicans in your region.
“From free BII membership (British Institute of Inkeeping) to unlock industry insights, to a diverse portfolio offering the perfect pub for your vision, Stonegate empowers you to maximize endless profit opportunities.
“Plus, our flexible tenancy agreements ensure you have the control you need to succeed.”
A regular told The Bolton News: “I’m disappointed it has closed, pubs are getting quieter and prices are rising. The Government needs to step in and help because pubs are staple of the community and bring people together.”
Stonegate lists the pub as having a forecast yearly turnover of £498,000 and a guide weekly rent of £634.
The Jolly Carter Pub. say Stonegate is known for its cosy, welcoming vibe typical of many village pubs in the UK.
Adding: “It likely has a blend of regular patrons, including locals from Little Lever, and people from nearby areas.”
And it serves traditional pub fare, featuring local ales, beers, and British pub classics such as fish and chips, pies, and Sunday roasts.
The website states: “The pub may host quizzes, live music, and other community-centred activities, making it a lively spot within the village.”
