Popular Derry city centre pub to close its doors later this week

One of Derry's oldest pubs is set to close its doors later this week.

The popular Grand Central Bar will call time on Friday night.

First established in 1922, the city centre pub has had many owners over the decades.

On a post on social media, current proprietor Rachel Eastwood said the decision to the business was due to rising prices.

She said: "Unfortunately, sometimes no matter how hard we try and how emotionally attached we are to something or somewhere, when the numbers aren't stacking up we have to admit defeat. The numbers haven't stacked up for longer than I cared to admit or face. It has become financially unviable to run this wee gem.

"We've been fighting for a few years against rising costs for us and our punters. There doesn't seem to be any give at all and to continue on would be detrimental to me and my family’s life."

She continued: "I don't know what the future holds for this stunning, centenarian public house. I just hope whoever takes it next loves it like we did. Pubs like this are dwindling on this island and I hope someone will come along after us with the skills, vision and finance to bring it back to life once again.

"The Grand Central Bar, established in 1922 has gone through many rebirths and owners. Here's to the next one.

"To my regulars and staff, I'm so sorry and so grateful in equal measure. It really is a big family and I wish you all the best in finding your new territory.

"We will trade from today until Friday. I invite everyone to come down to the pub on Friday to have a drink with us and some food. I only want a positive and proud goodbye. We'll have two floors of music going from 9pm. I'll post more details when my eyes stop stinging.

"I'll never forget the floods of people who came to support us when the doors opened on the 7th December 2012. Incredible considering I'm a blow in."

"Thank you Derry, I am absolutely gutted!" she concluded.