Wetherspoons closes The Quay pub in Poole today

Wetherspoons is closing a popular seaside pub in Poole, Dorset today. This comes just weeks before another Wetherspoons pub, The Spon Gate in Coventry, is set to shut on May 25. The Quay, which has been part of the Wetherspoons chain since 1996, is situated in a historic listed building on the waterfront. Many locals are sad about the closure. One regular said he feels "gutted," while another called it “the end of a good run.” The closure is part of a trend, as reports indicate that around six pubs close every week in the UK, leading to thousands of job losses. The British Beer and Pub Association warns that more pubs could close this year due to rising costs from increased National Insurance contributions and minimum wage hikes. Wetherspoons confirmed the closure was a business decision and expressed gratitude to its staff and customers. Wetherspoons has also recently sold two other pubs: The Hain Line and Foot of the Walk. However, it has not yet announced when these establishments will close. Fans of Wetherspoons can still find ways to save on food and drinks, including free refills of hot drinks and special themed nights. The chain recently launched its annual Spring Beer Festival, bringing a selection of international ales to its customers. Despite the recent price increases on some drinks and food items, the company aims to keep its offerings competitive. Wetherspoons continues to face challenges but remains popular among its patrons.