THE landlords of a once thriving country pub struggling to attract customers have thrown in the towel and emigrated.

Michelle and Paul Fabian called time at The Rising Sun Inn, in West Bagborough, after closing time on Sunday, October 23.

It is understood they have moved abroad where they have found work.

A friend of the couple said: "They'd had enough.

"It used to be a thriving village pub, but they've lost so much money due to rising costs and the cost of living crisis.

"They'd been there about 18 months, but made the decision to close the Friday before (October 21)."

It is understood five people have lost their jobs due to the closure.

The Rising Sun Inn phone appears to be disconnected and the pub website is down.

A notice on the internet says the pub is "temporarily closed".