A POPULAR Stourport pub faces an uncertain future after it was put on the market by the company that owns it.

The Ye Old Crown Inn, which is based in Bridge Street, is one of 34 ale houses across the country put up for sale by pub giant JD Wetherspoon.

A spokesman for the company said the firm had carried out a review of its 950-strong national pub estate and has decided to put a number up for sale.

He added that the Crown would continue to operate as a Wetherspoon pub until it was sold and employees would be offered roles elsewhere.

Staff at the pub today declined to comment on the decision but Stourport Mayor Councillor Cliff Brewer said he was surprised by the firm’s decision.

Wetherspoon spokesman Eddie Gershon said: “We can confirm that our pub in Stourport is on the market.

“We appreciate that our loyal customers will be disappointed with the decision.

“We can confirm that will remain open and trading as a Wetherspoon pub until it is sold.

“Staff will remain working for Wetherspoon and when the pub is sold will be offered jobs within the company or might wish to stay with the new owners.”

He added: “From time to time Wetherspoon will assess its pub estate and put a few on the market which, although popular and busy, the company feels it can let go. Unfortunately, the Stourport one was one of those listed.”

Councillor Brewer said: “I am surprised at Wetherspoon’s decision as it always seems very popular and busy, particularly at weekends.

“We will have to wait and see what happens when there is a new owner but I hope it will remain as a pub.”