Derry’s Grand Central to call last orders on Friday

Publican Rachael Parkes announced the closure of the popular watering hole on social media on Monday.

Ms. Parkes stated: “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.”

The historic pub at the corner of Great James Street and Strand Road has been operated by Ms. Parkes since 2012. She said she hopes it can be taken over in future and brought back to life under new ownership.

"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,” she said.

She confirmed last orders will be called under her ownership at the end of the week.

“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,” she said.

Ms. Parkes said she was ‘absolutely gutted’ at having had to make the decision to close, stating that she will ‘never forget the floods of people who came to support us when the doors opened on December 7, 2012’.

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