LOYAL customers have backed pub managers after news their venue is set to be taken over by the brewery and turned into a managed house.

The Crown Inn at Hallow, near Worcester, has been run by Will and Sacha Donaldson for over 10 years but their lease, which expires on February 15, 2021, will not be renewed by owner, Greene King.

Despite the couple fighting this decision with their solicitors, Greene King has decided not to renew the couple’s lease as the brewery plans to revert the pub back to a managed house under the Chef and Brewer brand.

Worcester News readers are shocked with the brewery’s plan.

Marcus Hayes said: “The brewery has struggled with The Crown for decades until Will and Sacha took it on. This is a greedy and unwise decision. It will go back to how it was before they took it on, struggling to stay open.”

David Yanez said: “If they have made it a great success then they should buy their own pub and build it into another great success, after all they are the reason for its success.”

Johanna Farmer said: “Brilliant couple, took the pub to another level and beyond, hospitality at its very best. I’m sure if they stay local customers will follow them.”

Chloe Wright said: “Nobody wants another tacky chain pub especially not in Hallow.”

Nigel Knight said: “Such a shame. Great pub for the village will be ruined when becomes part of a chain.”

Sarah Sanders said: “Absolutely shocking. With all the hard efforts from Sacha and Will then to be treated this way! No loyalty. Shame on the brewery.”

Dan Moir said: “The price of success. Build a good business, make it successful and that’s the thanks you get. Another example of breweries screwing people over. Why would anyone want to take on a lease with them? Do well and they charge you more or take the lease away.”