The owners of a coastal Somerset hotel on the brink of collapse have announced it will close at the end of September. 

The Blue Anchor Hotel at Blue Anchor near Minehead has faced months of problems after deep cracks started to appear on the site's land following a landslip in March, which lead to fears that the hotel could crumble.

Cara Elizabeth Strom, owner of The Blue Anchor, worked hard to keep the hotel going and built sea defences out of gabion baskets and rocks in a bid to stop it from collapsing into the sea.

But sadly the owner has decided to close the venue as she said she 'cannot see a long-term future' for the building and it still needs further investment.

"Sadly, The Blue Anchor Pub will be closing at the end of September," Cara said.

"When I returned to The Blue Anchor just over a couple of years ago, there was always a five-year plan to run the business and invest in the premises.

"It was always hoped that during that time we would be able to move forward with dealing with the coastal erosion problem.

"I have a business and a building that needs re- investment.

"I have watched what is happening with the cliff since the land slip in March and financial common sense has prevailed. How can I make further investment when I do not know whether it will be there by this time next year?"

Cara claims there has been a lack of action and communication by West Somerset Council to help protect the property.

She said some of her staff have already got jobs lined up and thanked residents for their support.

"Overall trading levels have been far above expectations but being such a seasonal business, we still lose money during the winter months," Cara said.

"More importantly the winter is a time where we can do the essential work on the building using money that I would need to borrow then pay back in the long term.

"I simply cannot do this with such uncertainty in the building’s future.

"None of the miraculous turn around could have been done without my wonderful team here who I cannot thank enough and wish them all the best of luck in finding new employment.

"Some of our staff have already got new jobs and other have interviews lined up.

"I highly recommend each member of our team to any prospective employer. I would also like to thank the many regulars for their support over the past two years, whether local or from afar.

"Meanwhile I will also be looking for employment."

West Somerset Council has been contacted for comment.