The future of a historic pub in Hadleigh remains in doubt after the hunt for new tenants has been less than successful so far.

Fears have been expressed that the historic Ram pub in the town will never reopen, but owners Greene King insist they are continuing to actively market for new operators.

A Greene King spokesperson told Nub News: "Our aim is to get the Ram back open again as soon as possible for the community.

"We are currently recruiting for a new operator looking for an opportunity to run this great pub and anyone interested should get in touch on 01284 843200."

Regular Tony Smith said: "It is a lovely pub, known for its terrific real ale but it has really struggled.

"Despite being in a good location it clearly was not paying for these guys. Hopefully it will come reopen, and I really miss it, but I'm genuinely concerned it will just get turned into flats or something."

Former tenants Stock and Bailey, who also own the Lavenham Greyhound, the Shoulder of Mutton in Assington, and the wine bar 67 Crouch Street in Colchester, decided against reopening the Ram after lockdown ended in May, two years after taking over the lease from Stuart Inns.

The Ram is believed to be the oldest pub in Hadleigh, and reputed to have been in continuous use since 1625. However, it was recorded as being a building from at least as early as about 1563.

Greene King describe The Ram as well presented and offering an excellent opportunity to deliver a quality, fine dining menu with a great wine list.

This pub can become a true destination business for those looking to celebrate a special occasions or looking for a wonderful experience.

The trade space is a large open plan area, with its own private chefs table and small courtyard. The Ram is popular locally and is known as a go to place to eat, currently trading at an 80/20 sales split in favour of food.

It is anticipated the new operators would need a £18,000 buy in for deposit, stock and expenses, with the rent set at £43,000 per year, although the forecasted operator turnover is £346,181 and a profit of £40,972.