Popular celeb hangout CLOSES suddenly as owner shares devastating reason why & fans mourn loss of ‘safe haven’
A POPULAR celebrity hangout has suddenly shut as the devastated owner shared the reason why.
Fans of the “safe haven” flocked to support the owner’s decision while mourning their own loss.
The hugely popular Bobby’s in Newcastle has shuttered its doors without warning, after the owner Kirk Spencer shared a statement on social media.
He said: “I wasn’t expecting to be writing this on a Monday morning. I’m very sad to have to say that Bobby’s Newcastle has closed it’s doors for the foreseeable future.
“Some of you will be aware of the health scares I have had recently but last week things developed to a point where I am no longer able to continue operating at the level I have been.
“Health is so important and I have to put myself and my family first.
“I have tried to put contingencies in place through recruitment to relieve some of the pressure but I haven’t been able to do so and I have run out of time to do it.”
Bobby’s first opened its doors near the end of the Covid pandemic, and quickly became a firm favourite among local revellers and celebs for its regular cabaret spots, opportunities for up and coming talent to perform, and welcoming atmosphere.
Celebs such as Scarlett Moffatt, Kim Woodburn, Charity Shop Sue, Katie Price and stars from The Traitors have all made an appearance at Bobby’s.
Katie visited the popular bar after a stint in an adult pantomime in North Shields at the start of the year, her first public appearance with Married at First Sight boyfriend JJ Slater.
Spencer also provided details about the future of the pub, saying: Bobby’s isn’t gone, it’s just having a break.
“When I started this 5 years ago I had no idea how amazing the ride would be.
“The Bobby’s family of staff, performers and customers is something I will cherish forever.
“I’ve made some friends for life and we’ve had some incredible shows and events. I wanted to support community projects and local performers, nurture talent and give people a platform to develop their art and creativity. I’m proud to say that Bobby’s did all of that.
“I want to thank absolutely everyone who has walked through our doors, every artist who has performed on our stage, every organisation or group who have allowed us to support them or worked with us and most of all the people who have worked so hard behind the scenes or on our bar to make Bobby’s what it is.”
Fans of Bobby’s took to the Facebook post to express their sadness.
One person wrote: “Bobby’s Newcastle will always hold a very special place in my heart. Its been a joy from the minute I started hosting at Bobby’s. Sending lots of love and best wishes to Kirk and my fellow dazzlers. Xxxx”
Another added: “It’s a sad day as Bobby’s Bar closes its doors, a place that was more than just a bar—it was a home, a safe space, and a trailblazer.
“I had the privilege of working there for three incredible years, and I’ll always be proud to have been part of something so special.
“Kirk’s vision wasn’t just to run a bar but to create a space that truly served its community, pushed boundaries, and raised the bar for everyone else.”
A third added: “We were in on Friday night, absolutely amazing atmosphere.
“You’ve all worked so hard to create a very special place for the community.
“So sorry you couldn’t get to a position where you could step away enough to concentrate on your health. Take care Kirk, look forward to seeing what you’re working on!!”
What is happening to the hospitality industry?
MANY food and drink chains have been struggling in recent months as the cost of living has led to fewer people spending on eating out.
Businesses had been struggling to bounce back after the pandemic, only to be hit with soaring energy bills and inflation.
Multiple chains have been affected, resulting in big-name brands like Wetherspoons and Frankie & Benny’s closing branches.
Some chains have not survived, Byron Burger fell into administration last year, with owners saying it would result in the loss of over 200 jobs.
Pizza giant, Papa Johns is shutting down 43 of its stores soon.
Tasty, the owner of Wildwood, said it will shut sites as part of major restructuring plans.
The brand plans to close 20 loss-making restaurants after a “challenging” start to the year.
Stonegate, has raised fears about its survival as it races to plug its debts.
And Revolution Bars Group is also carrying out a string of closures.
The company plans to close 25 locations across the UK is part of a restructuring plan granted approval by the High Court.
Pubs had feared a further blow after news leaked that the government was planning to ban smoking in pub gardens, however this policy is set to be dropped.