DRINKERS at a pub in Abingdon have been told it will close temporarily as the management team is changing.
The White Horse on the corner of Ock Street and Spring Road is run by Greene King.
Now customers at the pub have been told it will close from Saturday, April 4.
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A member of staff said: "The pub is going to become a Hive pub and will close for refurbishment."
It is not yet known when it will reopen but it is understood the pub could be closed for at least several weeks.
A notice to customers on the weekend at the weekend said: "We'll miss you. From Doreen and the team at The White Horse, we would like to say a big thank you for everything over the last three years.
"Our closure date is Saturday, April 4, at 11pm. Thank you for your patience and support as we prepare for closure."
Greene King has been advertising for a new team to take over the management of the pub.
It said in an advert at the end of last year: "Pub managers of Oxfordshire, looking to run your own show?
"The White Horse, Abingdon is becoming a Hive franchise pub.
"We’re looking for someone to front the business, who is community minded, passionate about great hospitality and who can keep the guests coming back for more.
"A Hive Pub franchise offers you: the chance to be your own boss, and lower operational costs than a tenancy model.
"As a franchisee, Greene King will offer you: a comprehensive induction programme, a fully refurbished pub, that’s ready to trade, we’ll even cover most of the operational costs."
The White Horse is popular for dining, and for its big screens which feature sports including Premier League football.
The Oxford branch of real ale group CAMRA (Campaign for Real Ale) said the pub building was Grade II listed.
It added: "Originally owned by the Borough of Abingdon, the White Horse dates back to 1845 and had a number of tenants who were coal merchants and publicans before the Morland family ownership.
"In 1999, Greene King became the new owners and extended this Grade II-listed building to provide dining facilities. This traditional English pub has a beer garden in front and its own car park."
The pub has a 4.3 out of 5 overall rating on reviews site Tripadvisor.
One recent customer wrote: "Nice old pub. We met up with family plus dogs for lunch - had a lovely and very reasonably priced meal, friendly staff and atmosphere - will come again!
"Other plus points are that it’s near to the A34 so a good meeting up point, and has a car park."
Greene King has been asked to comment.
