The tenants of a high street pub are "putting up a fight" to stay there, after being told their lease will not be renewed in two weeks' time.

Jackie and Sarah have been running The Marquis of Lorne in Stevenage High Street for the past five years.

In a joint statement yesterday (Sunday), they said: "It is with deep sadness to inform you, unfortunately, we've been told we can no longer keep this pub.

"The lease comes to an end in two weeks and Greene King doesn't wish for us to renew it, even though there is nothing we would love more.

"We've been reassured since June that Greene King wishes for us to stay. Then, two days ago, this changed.

READ MORE

"We've taken time and money to build the pub into what it is now.

"All the money spent on the front of the pub and the new sports bar we were creating is all to be left.

"We don't want to go, so we are putting up a fight and hope you can all help us in this fight.

"It's not just a pub. You're our community."

READ MORE

Customer Paula Storey has set up a petition calling on Greene King to reverse its decision and renew their lease.

She said the pub has become "a beacon of community spirit" in Stevenage, with Jackie and Sarah "turning it into a social hub, while also spearheading numerous fundraising initiatives."

Paula said: "Their efforts have not only made our pub a delightful place to gather, but also supported those in need within our community. 

"Greene King's decision threatens the very fabric of our community, as many of us will no longer frequent this pub if it is not run by Jackie and Sarah.

"The pub under Jackie and Sarah's management is more than just an establishment. It's where we come together as a community, supporting each other through thick and thin."

A spokesperson for Greene King said: "We’ve been in discussion with the current tenant of the Marquis of Lorne for a number of months.

"The tenant will be leaving the pub in the coming weeks, when we look forward to welcoming a new partner who will take over the running of the business."

To sign the petition, visit change.org/p/reverse-green-king-s-decision-and-renew-the-lease-for-our-beloved-local-pub.