ANOTHER of Colchester’s old pubs is to close.

The last pint will be pulled at the Maypole, in Berechurch Hall Road, today. Landlady Sally Crosby said owners Punch Taverns had decided to sell the 17th century building for housing.

Mrs Crosby said: “Punch Taverns are coming here tomorrow and taking all the beer lines out, so it will be delicensed. It is a shame communities are losing pubs.”

Five staff have found new jobs, most at other pubs run by Mrs Crosby.

Pub regulars said they were saddened by the loss. Frank O’Connell, of Blackheath, Colchester, said: “It is a fantastic pub. It is a great pity it is closing. It is in a wonderful location and there is always a good atmosphere.”

Kevin Wild, 32, of Mersea Road, Colchester, said: “It is very sad. Pubs like this are very important for socialising and for communities.”

A fundraiser at the Maypole on Sunday raised £6,000 to buy a wheelchair for customer Jason Cavill, 26, from Colchester, who has multiple sclerosis.

The pub opened in the Fifties. Its name is a reference to Maypole Green opposite, where a maypole once stood.

John Durrant, of the Colchester Campaign for Real Ale, said: “It is a terrible shame, but indicative of a changing world. It is a case of use it or lose it.”

A Punch Taverns spokesman confirmed the closure, but was unable to confirm future plans. Mrs Crosby thanked customers. An Olympic-themed farewell event will take place today at 12.30pm.

Mrs Crosby will be taking over the Black Buoy pub, in Wivenhoe, which will re-open on Saturday after being closed for two months. Landlords Bob and Madeleine Loveday retired in May.

Mrs Crosby, of Lexden , Colchester, said: “It is going to be more of an eating place. I am looking forward to carrying on the success we had at the Maypole through to Wivenhoe.”

She also thanked Punch Taverns for giving her the opportunity to run the Maypole. Mrs Crosby is also landlady of Colchester’s Abbey Arms pub.