Speculation over pub closure

Notices on the blacked-out windows and entrance of the Devonshire pub, in Devonshire Square,which has been shut for a number of weeks, say: 'Closed until further notice', indicating that it could be a while before it re-opens, and raising speculation that it may have shut permanently.

The notices also say that security and caretaking staff are resident on the premises.

Rumours around the area from local businesses and residents who are missing their 'local' claim to know what was happening.

One claim was that the premises had been taken over by the Wetherspoon's chain, however a spokesperson said that although they would like to have a presence in the town it would not be in the immediate future:

"We are interested to be in Bexhill but we are not looking at anything specific at the moment."

A similar rumour claimed that fast food chain McDonalds would be moving in, but a spokesperson said:

"McDonald's wants to serve its customers at the times and places which suit them, and we're constantly reviewing the locations of our restaurants to ensure we offer the most convenient service and choice.

"With over 60m of investment in new restaurants planned over the next few years, it's no surprise to hear rumours of possible sites, but we have no current plans to open a new restaurant at the site in question."

Despite all the rumours and speculation it appears that there's every possibility that the popular town centre pub is simply being refurbished and will be open again soon, sadly the owners did not wish to comment.