A pub may be opening soon after its previous owners shut its doors earlier this year.

The Blue Bell, a pub and restaurant in the heart of Dalston village, announced its closure due to a 'massive increase in costs'.

The Blue Bell, on The Square in Dalston, declared its decision in a heartfelt social media post on March 7.

In the post, the owners announced that they 'tried to keep the pub going as long' as they could, but due to rising costs, it was no longer possible.

The post on their Facebook page reads: "As we say goodbye, we would like to thank each and every employee, past and present for all of your hard work and dedication.

"We have made some wonderful memories together and you have enabled us to create such a wonderful community hub at the Blue Bell.

"To staff and customers, your friendship and support will never be forgotten and it is heartbreaking, to say the least, to leave.

"Regarding any functions or future bookings, I will be in touch over the coming week.

"We wish there was something we could do to remain open but unfortunately we are no longer in a position to do so.

"We hope you understand our difficult situation. We are so sorry to disappoint you with our closure.

"Wishing you all the best wishes, love, and appreciation for the future, and thank you for everything while we have been here," they said. 

However, soon after this, it was announced that new owners were being sought.

A spokesperson from Star Pubs & Bars (a business of Heineken UK) said: "We are looking to reopen the Blue Bell Dalston as quickly as possible but need to identify a suitable person to lease this popular community pub.

"The Blue Bell is a great business venture and anyone interested in running it can contact our recruitment team on 08085 949596 for more information.”

This may be happening soon, as a post on the village Facebook group Dalston Crack read: “To the Dalston community, I’d like to let you all know that the Blue Bell pub has a new landlord.

“We will be opening soon and are looking forward to welcoming old and new faces.”

It’s not been revealed who has taken over the business, but the talk around the village is that it has been bought by a man who lives there, with an opening date still unconfirmed, but it appears the bell has yet to toll for good.