THE licensee of a popular Irish pub in Bournemouth town centre has blamed the recession for his decision to close.

Daisy O’Briens, in Old Christchurch Road, closed its doors on Wednesday after more than 13 years, to the shock of regulars and town chiefs.

In a notice pinned to the door, licensee Mike Parker said: “It is with great regret that I have to inform you that due to the current economic climate, Daisy’s has wilted.”

A Facebook group set up in honour of the pub has already seen customers posting comments expressing surprise and regret at the closure.

Emma Whelan wrote: “I’m really sad about Daisy’s closing. Met some really great people, had some really funny drunken times in there. If it wasn’t for this place I would not have met Pete.”

Jon Spencer wrote: “Daisy’s. I’ve had some memorable unmemorable nights in there.”

Night-time economy co-ordinator Jon Shipp also blamed the smoking ban for the pub’s closure.

He said: “I think probably they (the licensees) would say it was the smoking ban because they are a small venue and don’t have any external areas. It’s very much a beer and a smoke establishment. I know it’s had a high rent. A smallish venue which can’t have smoking outside areas in a recession is always going to struggle with high rents.”

Cllr Dave Smith, ward councillor, said he was unaware that the pub had closed adding: “I would imagine it’s a sign of the times because of the recession.

“I think it’s a reflection of over-supply of alcohol establishments in town.”

The doors were locked and the pub in darkness when the Daily Echo knocked on the door on Thursday, and no-one was answering the phone.