The Horns, which has played host to legendary as well as up-and-coming bands, shut its doors on Sunday (October 30).

NEW: The Horns says it is 'fighting' to stay open after closure announcement

In a post shared on Facebook on Tuesday evening, Horns Watford said the venue was no longer “financially sustainable”.

It read: “To all our bands and customers. I’ve some really bad news.

“The pub has closed its doors for the last time on Sunday night. Our lease runs out in November and we can’t afford it keep it running anymore it’s totally unsustainable.

“I really did everything I could with Covid, the rise in energy bills and the change in people's habits - I was really fighting a losing battle.

“I’m so sorry to each and every one of you. I’m completely heartbroken.

“Thank you for your support. Any sold tickets will be refunded in the next few days.”

The post has received dozens of comments from people “devastated” and “saddened” by the news.

The pub, situated at the top of the town centre near the town hall, has been financially challenged for a number of years.

Manager of The Horns, Jane Giles, warned in 2019 that the venue was in danger of closing due to dwindling customers and high running costs. Jane and mum Jan, who took over the business in 2015, even appealed for an investor.

Then in the summer of 2020, Horns Watford joined a campaign launched by the Music Venue Trust called Save Our Venues.

A Crowdfunder raised just over £8,000, and The Horns has been able to keep its doors open over the last couple of years.

A wall in The Horns in 2020 as part of a campaign by the Music Venue Trust to save the venue (Image: Newsquest)

Read more: The Horns in Watford appeals for investor

Read more: The Horns in Watford launches campaign to save it from closing

There has never been a shortage of musicians wanting the chance to play there with hundreds of performers taking to the stage every year.

Famous faces who have performed at The Horns include Paul Young, Chas & Dave, and Dr Feelgood. The Spitfires and The Staves played there as students.

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