Couple to leave historic Brierley Hill pub with heavy hearts less than a year after ambitious refurb

Lee and Jessica Davies announced that this weekend (April 26 and 27) is their last at The Black Horse on Delph Road, which dates back to 1834. 

The couple took on the pub, on the famous 'Delph Run', in August last year and moved in with their two children. Extensive refurbishments were carried out including a complete renovation of the kitchen which was given a five star rating, and family areas introduced.

But in a post on Facebook, they say there simply isn't enough trade to keep the doors open and they can't achieve the numbers expected for it to remain sustainable.

It said: "This on top of the heavy financial losses we have made this year, led us to this difficult decision.

"Meeting all of you has been a blessing and we have made some friends for life, we can’t thank you all enough for.

"We have had some amazing nights and will cherish those memories.

"We hope whoever the new owners are will continue with the same passion that we have had for the pub and continue with the improvements."

The news was met with sorrow by a number of customers who posted their comments.

Dawn Jenson said: "Lee, Jess I know you’ve done your best guys and hope things will work out on your next adventures wherever life takes you both. Love the Monday night quiz and hopefully Dannii and Aaron will be able to continue there."

Abby Rose said: "Really sorry to hear this, you’ve made a lovely pub with a warm welcome. You’ll be missed xx."

And Paula Hughes posted: "So sad to hear this. You've done a great job bringing the pub and the Delph back to life."

The pub is the oldest on the Delph Run, which also includes The Tenth Lock, The Bell, The Vine Inn, Corn Exchange and the Brickmakers Arms. 

Lee said the pub would be open until today (Sunday, April 27) ) or until the beer runs out.