Melton pub landlords announce they are leaving with emotional message
A couple who run one of Melton Mowbray’s town centre pubs have announced ‘with the heaviest hearts’ that they are leaving.
Richard and Hazel Hewson have created a reputation for putting on quality live music at the White Hart, in Thorpe End, but the pressures of running the business have led to them deciding to close up for the final time on January 4.
They have called on regulars to join them to celebrate the good times they’ve enjoyed in the last few weeks of their time there.
In an emotional message, the couple posted on their Facebook page today (Thursday): “After countless unforgettable nights, endless pints poured, and more music than we could ever measure, we have to share the news we never wanted to give.
“This decision has been incredibly difficult. We’ve poured everything into this place - our time, our energy, our hearts.
“We built The White Hart to be the kind of pub we’d love to visit ourselves: a home for live music, laughter, friendship, and those moments that stay with you long after the last note fades.
“In so many ways, we succeeded. We’ve been blessed with extraordinary bands and artists who trusted our stage with their talent. We’ve seen people dance, sing, celebrate, cry, and connect. We’ve met incredible friends and shared nights we’ll remember for the rest of our lives.”
Reflecting on the challenges of running a pub in the current economic climate, the couple said: “Despite our best efforts - and we truly have tried everything - support has dwindled, and the vital help we needed from management never really came.
“We’ve thrown our hearts into movie nights, bingo, quizzes, themed evenings, jazz sessions, jam nights, Sunday Lunches, and even a Piano Bar afternoon.
"Some were a hit, some missed - but all were attempts to keep this place alive.
“The truth is simple: it has become too much to sustain physically, emotionally, and financially. So here we are.”
The Hewsons are keen to thank their regular customers, adding: “We’ll be here until the end of the year with fantastic live music, Sunday Lunches, Christmas Dinner, and a New Year’s Eve party to celebrate together.
“To everyone who has been part of this journey - regulars, first-timers, musicians, neighbours, and friends - thank you.
"Truly. Your smiles, your voices, your energy, and your love have meant everything to us.
"So, with the heaviest hearts, we invite you to join us as we celebrate our final chapter at The White Hart.
“We’ll be open for the first weekend of 2026, closing our doors for the final time on Sunday January 4, so come help us drink the bar dry and give this place the farewell it deserves.
What’s next? Who knows. Maybe we’ll move on to something new, maybe someone else will step in and breathe fresh life into The Hart. One thing’s certain: we love live music, and we’ll continue to support it in every way we can. And if the right opportunity comes along, you can bet we’ll grab it with both hands.”