The landlords of the Bull and Lion pub in Packington say they are leaving after a difficult year following the introduction of Covid-19 restrictions.

Darren and Janice Gould posted on Facebook over the weekend that 'they cannot be themselves' while having to wear masks and adhere to Government rules.

The post also says they have found a lack of support for the pub in the village during the lockdown period.

They had been trying new ways of boosting business and, in May, Ashby Nub News reported on their pop-up pub idea.

That involved serving drinks from a converted horse box in the pub's car park and taking it on tour around the area.

Packington Landlord Aims To Start Pop-up Pub

But the family admitted defeat when it became clear that pubs will not be able to operate as usual for some time yet.

They say they are now serving a limited menu at the High Street venue and the pub's website no longer operates - with the domain name up for sale.

The Facebook post reads: "It is with sad and heavy heart that we have taken the decision to leave the Bull and Lion, we thank all of our customers and feel we can't be ourselves with all these new rules and wearing a mask.

"It has been tough times and we would have liked some more support from the locals of Packington who don't seem to use us as a local business.

"We rely on local support. However, we do thank our loyal supporters.

"We will be stopping food on Saturday (October 10) and will be running a limited menu this week.

"Once again we thank you for your support, God bless. Thanks, Bull and Lion team. Darren, Jan, Luke, Emily."