A NORTH York Moors pub has closed, with the managers declaring it “wasn’t financially viable”.

The Blacksmiths in Hartoft, near Cropton, had only been open for six months. It was taken over in the spring by Paul and Scott McNicoll-Cheong.

In a statement released on social media, Paul said: “It is with great sadness that we let you know that the Blacksmiths has closed again. Over the past six months, Scott, the whole team and I have put our heart and soul into trying to revive this inn.” He added the level of investment required and costs meant it was not financially viable.

Paul said: “We would like to thank all our customers for their support so far and the team for all their hard work and dedication. Any customers with queries about future bookings and deposits can contact us on stay@blacksmiths-hartoft.co.uk.”