A landmark pub dubbed the lifeblood of a village has shut as its licensees faced bankruptcy proceedings.

Regulars spoke of their dismay at the closure of the historic Royal Oak pub in Great Stambridge.

Licensees Robert and Melba Hume had bankruptcy orders made against them at Southend County Court on Monday, December 2, and the pub has been closed ever since.

Published Tuesday, December 17, 2002

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