PUBGOERS in Harpenden are lamenting the closure of their local at East Common for the fourth time.

The managers of The Three Horseshoes recently posted a message on the pub’s website saying that it has been closed with “deep regret”.

They apologised for inconveniencing pub-goers and thanked customers for their support.

The message continues: “We will continue to offer our friendly and professional service at [The Three Horseshoes’ sister pub] The Cricketers of Redbourn and look forward to seeing you there.”

But Steve Gledhill, of Cravells Road, Harpenden, said: “Local residents are very angry.”

He lamented the demise of the “local asset” and added: “There have been three failed attempts to run a gastro pub at the Three Horseshoes in recent years. It has not been successful since its change from a pub to a restaurant.”

Steve maintained that a return to quick and basic food would give “instant success”.

He suggested: “Go back to basics, make it a real pub and start welcoming drinkers again.

“It’s a great little country pub and used to be really busy and successful.

“A few years ago it was turned into a gastro pub and has consistently failed ever since.”

A spokesperson for The Three Horseshoes was not available for comment.