A PUB dating back to the 18th century has closed its doors for the last time, ahead of a conversion into office space.

The White Horse, which has stood in Lewin Street for 250 years, called last orders on Saturday night, after it was confirmed that the historic building’s new owners would not retain it as a pub.

The pub’s last owners announced on February 26 that contracts had been signed to sell the building, and then confirmed on March 7 that the pub would become three downstairs offices with flats upstairs.

The landlady wrote on Facebook: “I have made some wonderful friends and met some lovely customers, who I will dearly miss.”

Plans for a change of use were approved by Cheshire East Council in July last year, on the basis that the pub was not registered as an asset of community value.

For the conversion to go ahead conditions were imposed including removing the cellar doors and improving the footpath.

Middlewich Town Council had objected to the change of use proposal when the application arose.

The council recommended work take place between 8am and 6pm Monday to Friday, 9am to 2pm on Saturday with no work on Sundays or public holidays. The development must begin within three years.

Cllr David Latham said at the time of the change of use decision: “It would be disappointing to see the White Horse close.

“It’s a shame because it will have had a successful time during FAB festival with more customers and it is a viable business.

“By the time the developer has finished work on the place they probably could have invested elsewhere in the town for a much smaller cost so I just don’t get it.

“Even with a change of use the list of problems around the building go on and on.

“There is still a lack of space around the bend in Lewin Street and people are still at risk of being injured.

“Changing the pub into an office will not stop that and may cause more issues due to the increased number of cars driving in and out.”

In the past the pub has served groups such as The Order of the Druids and the Loyal Order of the Ancient Shepherds.

The weekend’s farewell events saw a DJ, karaoke and an all-day party on Saturday including the 70th birthday celebrations of a long-term regular.

What are your memories of the famous old pub? Let us know below, on Facebook, or by emailing the editor at yourviews@guardiangrp.co.uk