A TAUNTON pub had to close at the weekend - because it sold out of beer.

The Victoria Gate, in East Reach, became a victim of its own success and was forced to close yesterday (Sunday) after a busy weekend.

Licensee Gareth Field is awaiting the next delivery of beer so that he can re-open on Wednesday.

Mr Field said: "We completely sold out of everything on tap, so unfortunately we will be closed until Wednesday when we get our next delivery.

"Thanks to everyone who made it another great socially distanced weekend."

Similar to pubs up and down the country, the Victoria Gate has been hit by the Covid-19 crisis.

It has lost its pool and darts team and cancelled entertainment events.

But the pub remains busy, although takings have dropped due to the restrictions in place.

Mr Field said: "We've lost our five pool teams and seven darts teams and have had to stop our very popular Friday discos, Saturday band nights and monthly comedy evenings.

"So I'm happy we are still busy, even though takings are 50 per cent down from last year.

"Luckily we put a lot of effort in over the last two years to attract former locals back and new ones, so without the support of them and the amazing staff we would have been having to close down."