The landlord of a Suffolk pub that has been in existence for more than 200 years has announced that it will be closing on Friday.

James Dixson took over the running of the Half Moon in Walton High Street less than a year ago, but has announced on social media site Facebook that the pub will be closing "its doors for the last time" at 11pm on October 25.

The announcement has sparked sadness among Facebook users at the apparent closure of a long-standing pub.

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One poster said: "This is really sad. Was in there last week, lovely atmosphere, busy, good pint.

"Light and day compared to the shocking state of it when you took it over."

Another said: "That's terrible news. You and your team have worked so hard to improve everything. So sorry."

In November, this newspaper reported how Mr Dixson had taken over the Half Moon with the aim to make it a venue for events, including charity fundraisers, as well as a traditional ale drinkers pub.

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Previously, Mr Dixson and his wife Tina had run the Falcon Inn opposite the Half Moon and saw an opportunity to turn their new acquisition into a community pub.

He explained that he intended to bring back the beer festival to the Half Moon, as well as inviting community groups to visit, such as a folk music club with 60 members.

In addition, Mr Dixson wished to use the pub's extensive beer garden to host car and motorbike clubs.

The Half Moon has been running for at least 200 years and was known briefly as the Tap and Spile, much to the annoyance of local residents.

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