Truro’s oldest pub has closed its doors until a new landlord is found. The White Hart in New Bridge Street dates back to the 1750s when Richard Donnithorne was in charge.

Today, it is owned by Punch Taverns and has most recently been run by Dave and Jacki Adams in partnership with Dave’s brother Jason Mitchell, with a strong reputation for real ales, live music, quiz nights and weekly discos.

Dave confirmed the decision was made following the Autumn Budget. “Our business overheads were set to increase by £30,000 a year, which isn’t financially viable for us,” he said. “We did not expect a Labour government to hit the working man.

“We moved here from Stoke two years ago with plans to see out our retirement in Cornwall, but it hasn’t worked out that way. I don’t know what’s next for us.”

Jacki added: “I feel sorry for the locals because they are losing their pub. If Punch Taverns do find someone else to take it on for what they are asking, they will be bankrupt within a year.”

The couple are renting accommodation in Truro and plan to stay in touch with customers via a WhatsApp group.

Charity fundraising group Truro Old Boys met twice a year at the White Hart. “This is our spiritual home, where we have raised more than £35,000 for local charities over 10 years,” said member Graham Humphrey.

“Its future is uncertain, so for our ten-year anniversary on June 28, we’ll hold a one-off event at Skinners Brewery, and over the next six months a decision will be made on a future location for Truro Old Boys’ fundraising events.”

A Punch Pubs & Co spokesperson said: “We can confirm that the White Hart in Truro will close temporarily on Sunday, March 30. We would like to thank Jason and the team for their hard work and service during their tenure, and wish them the very best for their future endeavours.

“Our priority is to open the doors to this fantastic pub as soon as possible, and we are actively recruiting new publicans to see its long-term success. We encourage anybody interested in this opportunity to contact our recruitment team on 01283 501999.”