A historic Southampton pub has announced it will be closing down, just four months after it reopened.

In a shock twist, the Juniper Berry pub in Castle Square said it would cease trading from today (Sunday, 10 December), as the building was 'unsafe'. 

In a post on Facebook, John and Tracey Horrocks who ran the pub explained their decision.

Daily Echo: John and Tracey Horrocks outside The Juniper BerryThe reasons cited were due to 'the site being deemed as unsafe' due to 'many electrical defects, asbestos, no heating or hot water and a leaking roof'.

They said: "This decision is totally out of our control; we have only been here a short time but have met some lovely people who have helped us a lot.

"We would like to thank you all for your custom."

READ MORE: The Southampton riverside pub collecting Christmas gifts for children

The Juniper Berry pub has had a rollercoaster year, closing under mysterious circumstances in February and then being reopened in September when John, 68, and Tracey, 60, picked up the reins.

The couple previously ran The Hinkler pub in Thornhill and Sarisbury Green Social Club.

Following the opening, the pair spoke to the Echo about the challenges they faced renovating the building.

"When we took it over, the kitchen especially was derelict," John said.

He added: “We’re still having leaks, drain issues, and have scaffolding going up.

“We had to hoover the carpet about five times.

“Every single letting room upstairs has been refurbished – seven rooms and the owner’s flat.

“It’s the most challenging pub we have ever had to deal with.”

Tracey added: “It took me three weeks to clean this bar, through to the next one.

“We had to start from scratch with the letting rooms – give them all a decent clean and buy new everything.

“It has certainly been a challenge.”

The Juniper Berry stands on the site of the former home of author Jane Austen and is known for its Tudor features.