A BAR in Andover's town centre has closed its doors for good despite only trading for a year.

The last orders have been called at The Ark Bar in London Street.

Owner Jason Wyatt took to Facebook to share the news with residents on Saturday, December 30.

READ MORE: ARK Bar in Andover receives £1,000 grant

Andover Advertiser: Jason Wyatt, owner of The ARK BarJason Wyatt, owner of The ARK Bar (Image: Public)

After being made redundant, Jason followed his dreams and opened The ARK Bar - ARK standing for a random act of kindness.

Since first opening in December 2022 the bar has received amazing feedback and most importantly for Jason, become recognised as another safe place to go to in town for all ages.

Now just over a year on Jason posted a video on Facebook announcing the closure.

In a video, he said: "This is just a short message to say that after much thought I have decided to call last orders at The ARK Bar for the very last time. Two of the biggest contributing factors for this are the location of the bar and of course the license restrictions.

"I have met some great people, some really cool people and some really positive people in the industry within our own community. I would like to thank each and every one of you for standing by me and what we represent at the bar."

He continued: "I will of course take lots of positives from this experience. I have learnt a lot and I will be taking those to what I do in the future. So for now thank you to everyone who come into the bar or who worked on the bar."

Residents have been left shocked and saddened at the sudden closure, with many commenting on the video.

Dan HM posted: "This is criminal! Such a great bar with so much potential - so sad that not enough people saw that and of course the restrictions got in the way! Loved your ethos their and certainly wish you great success in whatever comes next for you."

SEE ALSO: The ARK bar in Andover town centre celebrates at its opening night

Another resident, Wayne Cutting, posted: "All the best for the future buddy... thank you for all that you have done , fully understand the reasons for making this sad decision."

Becky Standley-Bruce, also shared her thoughts, adding: "So sorry to hear this you will be missed by so many. "

The news comes despite the bar being awarded a £1,000 grant from Test Valley Borough Council.

Cllr Iris Andersen added: "This is not good news to hear as I know how hard Jason worked on this venue. There have been a lot of singers and groups that have played here. It will be missed."