A COUPLE say they can no longer afford to run an historic pub due to "spiralling" costs. 

The licensees of The Prestoungrange Gothenburg, Prestonpans High Street, a well-known community hub for more than a century, confirmed the news yesterday.

The Goth was established more than 110 years ago to encourage sensible drinking among local miners and the general working classes.

Its principles were based on the Gothenburg pub system used successfully in Sweden and adopted in parts of Scotland in the late 19th century.

Four years ago, the running of the pub was taken over by Michelle McLellan and Calum Wilson.

But in a social media post, they confirmed that the "spiralling cost of living" meant continuing to trade was "no longer viable" for them".

It is with great sadness we would like to inform you all that as of January 1, 2023, we will be closing our doors for good," they said.

READ MORE: New landlord takes over at The Goth

"With the spiralling cost of living, we have decided continuing to trade is no longer viable for us. We are deeply devastated to reach this outcome.

"We have spoken to our staff and we are all committed to honouring all booking until the end of the year.

"Our last trading day will be 1st of January with live music from Stuart Wilson in the main bar.

"We would like to thank ALL our customers for their continued support over the past four years without your support we would not have had some of the best times, memories and laughs as we have had. And these will be fondly remembered.

READ MORE: Free breakfasts to those in need thanks to The Goth

"We also would like to thank the musicians for the amazing entertainment you have provided us and the customers with.

"A massive thank you Gordon Prestoungrange, our landlord, for all his support, trust and faith in us to look after his building.

"Lastly we want to praise all our past and present staff for making our time here one of the best. Without you all this would not have been possible and for that we truly grateful.

"Once again a massive thank you to everyone."

Profits from The Goth have, for many years, been used to support the arts and the community in Prestonpans and wider East Lothian.

During the height of the pandemic, The Goth delivered 350 children's breakfast boxes to families in East Lothian.

Dr Gordon Prestoungrange, who has owned The Goth - which includes a bar, microbrewery, kitchen and function areas - for two decades, said it was "sad to see Michelle and Calum move on".

But he pledged to keep The Goth trading.

"They've been great hosts for four years now and we're expecting a grand Christmas and New Year for them and all their loyal customers," he told the Courier.

"Yes, of course, we plan to keep The Gothenburg trading and already have a good shortlist of future publicans.

"We brought it [the pub] back to the Pans 20 years ago, twice entertained the Lord Mayor of Goteborg from Sweden and celebrated its 100th anniversary in 2008. 

"The Goth is part of our local heritage and its future is for us all to ensure." 

But he confirmed the pub would be "closed early January while we get sorted out".