THE landlord of one of the area’s oldest pubs is selling up after running out of money to keep it going.

Mark Bond, who was rescued when locals chipped in £5,000 to pay a court fine for breaching environmental health rules in 2010, has finally admitted defeat after a decade at Blagdon Hill’s Lamb and Flag.

The final straw came when he discovered he faced a £15,000 bill to repair the porch of the Grade II listed building, which also houses the village post office and store.

“I don’t have any more capital left to invest,” said Mr Bond.

“It’s been a fight to stay here because less and less people are going out for a drink, especially in rural areas, which makes business harder and harder.

“If I didn’t have to spend £15,000 repairing the porch, I’d probably soldier on.

“It’s been all-consuming and I don’t have much time for life outside the pub.”

The Lamb and Flag, which includes an owner’s flat and dates back to Tudor times, is on the market for £300,000.

“I’ve always tried to be a locals’ pub, but maybe after ten years it’s time for somebody else to have a go,” said Mr Bond.