Probe into 'conduct' of directors of traditional Lovedean pub that owed HMRC money

The Bird in Hand, in Lovedean Lane, remains shut currently with a sign still placed on the door saying “closed until further notice”.

The pub owner Stonegate told The News in November attempts were being made from a third party to close the tudor-style pub that has “been a major part of the village since the 1800s”, according to its website.

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As reported last week, Stonegate revealed the pub owes money to HMRC with the official receiver named as The Insolvency Service - a government agency which is seeking to recoup its money. The pub chain firm was unable to give any indication of when the pub might reopen.

Now The Insolvency Service has given an update to The News over the mysterious situation. The receiver said the company Peppermill Pubs Limited had been trading as The Bird in Hand but was wound up at the High Court of Justice on 6 November before The Insolvency Service was appointed as liquidator.

“The official receiver’s priority was to wind-up the company in accordance with her statutory duties, for the benefit of the company’s creditors. She also has a duty to inquire into the conduct of current and former directors,” a statement said.

“An agreement was reached with the premises’ owner to purchase the company’s assets, with the aim to re-open the premises under new ownership. The premises were taken back by the owner on 11 November, following the closure on 7 November.”

Meanwhile East Hampshire District Council previously said it was looking into matters following questions over the licence - with it subsequently confirming the pub did have a licence after it had lapsed and renewed.

The abrupt closure led to people posting on social media that staff were “laid off until further notice”. Another person said: “Everyone who works there has just been fired.” Another local added: “Such a terrible shame.”

A post from the pub said “all staff have been paid” and “all bookings/deposits will be honoured”.

A Stonegate spokesperson said last month: "We can confirm that The Bird in Hand has ceased trading following a third-party court application to liquidate the company.

“This situation, while unfortunate, was beyond our control, and we understand that this is a difficult time for the team impacted by the closure. We will be working closely with the official receiver to understand when we can expect the pub to be handed back to us and we can then work on plans to reopen.”

A message from the pub on its website said: “Please note we are now closed. All deposits are being processed and refunded. Should you have any questions please email [email protected].”