A popular Wirral Wetherspoons could be set to close after the pub chain announced plans to sell 32 of its properties nationwide.
The John Masefield, on New Chester Road in New Ferry, could be set to close after the pub chain has begun to look into the sale of 32 of its pubs throughout the country. A spokesperson for the chain called it a "commercial decision" to sell the pubs, and said the chain "understands[s] that customers and staff will be disappointed."
It is still uncertain if the John Masefield will close after its sale, though the news will come as a shock to some of its customers who have helped the pub achieve a four-star rating on Google. One customer called it a "Classic Wetherspoons pub as you'd expect" with a "lovely atmosphere."
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Another said the pub was a "lively place" with "great food." They said they had "Nothing to complain about" after having a "good experience overall" at the "child-friendly" pub.
In 2007, the pub was at the centre of controversy due to the portrait of John Masefield, a former Poet Laureate, that adorned its front - bearing what some people considered a striking resemblance to Adolf Hitler. The pub was subsequently named "the Adolf" by locals.
However, after an outcry and intervention from a local councillor, the portrait was eventually taken down.
Speaking on the sales of their 32 pubs, spokesperson for JD Wetherspoon, Eddie Gershon, said: "On occasion, Wetherspoon does put some of its pubs up for sale. This is a commercial decision.
"We understand that customers and staff will be disappointed with it. The pubs will continue to operate as Wetherspoon outlets until they are sold."
The 32 pubs for sale are being marketed by commercial property specialists CBRE and Savills. CBRE senior director Toby Hall said: "The excellent mix of locations in this portfolio is rarely seen in the market.
"With more than half of the portfolio located in London and the south-east and other strong locations in the south-west, Midlands and the north of England we believe the pubs represent an excellent opportunity for existing pub operators and new entrants".
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