A TRADITIONAL pub that has served countless customers over the decades will serve its final pints tonight.

As reported by the Star, staff at the Ship Inn announced that the Blackbrook Road pub would close for good on Sunday, October 22.

There was a huge response to the news on social media, with many sharing memories of their times frequenting the pub over the years.

There was also a significant expression of frustration as the closure leaves the area without any traditional boozers, while many thanked managers Steve and Kim Padgham for their time at the helm. 

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St Helens Star: The Ship Inn, on Blackbrook RoadThe Ship Inn, on Blackbrook Road (Image: Google Maps)
Brewing company Greene King took over the reins of the popular drinking den in 2019, although it has been run by an independent operator since the take over.

As the pub has been facing financial difficulties, Greene King is said to have put the business up for sale in the summer, with the intention to sell it on to another brewery and continue its life as a pub.

However, as no bids have come in for the business, it is believed that the independent operator has decided to close the pub due to its financial difficulties and hand the lease back to the brewery.

Speaking to the Star about the closure, Steve said: "Greene King has pulled the plug unfortunately as the pub wasn't making enough money, which is a similar case with pubs across the country.

"Our regulars are gutted as some of them have been drinking here for over 40 years and I feel sorry for them really."

The pub manager said he did not know what the building would be turned into, but said that staff are being supported to find new roles.