THE future of a popular hotel in the centre of Gifford has been plunged into doubt after it abruptly closed.

Nick Heckford, along with wife Anne, reopened the doors of the Goblin Ha’ in May.

However, the business closed suddenly on Friday.

The couple declined to comment when approached by the Courier earlier this afternoon.

Adam White, chairman of Gifford Community Council, said that there were rumours about what had happened on social media.

He said: “It’s very sad, it really is.

“The village needs the two hotels and it is a real shame.

“It is almost a year since it closed before.

“It is just a real pity, just a great shame.”

Earlier this year, Mr Heckford told the Courier that they had passed the pub and restaurant and had found something that “looks interesting”.

READ MORE: Gifford's Goblin Ha' welcomes customers back after reopening

Mr Heckford had been delighted by the response when they had reopened the doors.

At that time, he said: “I tell you what, they are so friendly the people here.

“I have probably given tours to about 300 people that have stuck their head in while we have been doing work.

“They are so welcoming and the number of messages I have had saying they are happy the Goblin has reopened – they are really supportive.”

The business is named after the Goblin Ha’ (or Goblin Hall) hidden beneath the nearly 800-year-old Yester Castle located nearby.