ESTABLISHED owners of a popular pub are calling time on the business.

The leasehold of the Castle Inn on Colchester High Street is up for sale with a price tag of £99,500.

It will be the end of an era as Amanda Halsey and Alan Dennis are retiring after running the pub for 16 years.

Amanda said they had both enjoyed their years at the drinking hole but felt it was “time to step away”.

She said: “Alan turns 65 in December so neither of us are getting any younger.

“We’ve been thinking about it for a few months now and made the decision in the summer that we’d like to step down.

“We’ve had a good run with lots of fond memories and a lot of good times, far too many to pick out.

“We both like to say a big thank you to all of our staff old and new for their continued efforts and for being so supportive. We’re still hiring new staff now and we know they will serve well in the pub’s future.

“To the next owner, be prepared for a good bit of hard work but plenty of fun along the way.”

The pub has stood on its prime town centre location since 1690.

Most of the building dates back to the 18th century and is Grade II listed.

The ground floor has a number of original fine features and in addition to the bar and restaurant, there is a function room and a garden which was added by Amanda and Alan in 2006.

Simon Jackaman of leisure property specialists Fleurets, said: “The Castle Inn is an established and popular venue which our clients have operated since 2000.

“It is noted as a sporting venue with a number of TVs located around the bar and restaurant.

“It is also located in an excellent position which attracts high volumes of passing trade.

“It is in front of Colchester’s Norman castle which attracts visitors from around the world and the Castle Park which hosts various events throughout the year, attracting on average one million yearly visitors.”