OWNERS of a highly rated pub which closed suddenly last month have said an announcement about its reopening is imminent.

The Hare and Hounds pub in Layer Breton closed unexpectedly last month, but the Gazette understands major refurbishments are underway before it reopens in the coming weeks.

Gazette: Closed – the Hare and Hounds pub closed unexpectedly last monthClosed – the Hare and Hounds pub closed unexpectedly last month (Image: Daniel Rees, Newsquest)

Signs outside the pub read the kitchen is closed, and some regulars of the popular hostelry told the Gazette they had been given no warning and turned up to find it closed.

When the Gazette went to the pub on Tuesday, it found the pub closed and builders carrying out work at the site.

Chairs could be seen stacked on tables.

Gazette: Imminent – a sign at the front of the bar implied the future of the Hare and Hounds will be made clear soonImminent – a sign at the front of the bar implied the future of the Hare and Hounds will be made clear soon (Image: Daniel Rees, Newsquest)

A sign on the door said: “Pub closed for essential maintenance and refurbishment works.

“An announcement of reopening will be imminent, thank you.”

The Gazette understands the pub is due to reopen when the refurbishment is complete.

In 2015, the Great British Pub Awards announced the Hare and Hounds as the winner of the best community pub in the east midlands and east Anglia region.

The same year, it was named the Essex Pub of the Year by the Essex life fine food and drink awards.