A Sandbach pub has closed its doors due to rising energy costs and a downturn in the frequency of visits from drinkers.

The Rookery Tavern in Ettiley Heath closed yesterday (Saturday) after live-in manager, Jess Scarlett, who ran the premises with partner, Alvin Khumalo, decided she could no longer carry on.

The popular manager says she had put her "heart and soul" into running the Elton Road pub but she felt she had to call it a day.

"I've no idea why it hasn't worked out because I have done everything possible to make it work. The figures we were being asked to hit just weren't achievable," says Jess, who took over the pub six months ago.

"I have done everything possible and organised so many events but we just couldn't carry on. I've also decorated and put a pool table in.

"It's a combination of the price of energy bills and the fact people aren't coming out so much. I don't know whether it's because of the cost-of-living crisis or not.

"There's been a dramatic drop in customers. We're staying in Sandbach and doing other things until the climate improves."

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Jess, 24, who has worked in the pub trade since she was 18-years-old, and although this is her first love she has retrained to do beauty therapy work.

She has set up a nail and eye lash business called "Beauty by Jessica" and her partner has gone back to care work until things improve.

"I couldn't have tried any harder to make this work. It's just so sad and we would like to thank all our customers who have supported us," said Jess.