Owners of The Stackyard in Sunderland to step down

Located on St Cuthbert Way in Sunderland, The Stackyard has long been a favourite among locals, known for serving up locally sourced food and drinks.

Taking to social media this morning (February 18), the owners shared the news, describing it as “an extremely difficult decision” to make.

The post said: “We as a family have decided we will not renew our agreement with Stonegate.

“After 10 years, we feel now is the right time for us to pass the baton. We have had many happy years in this fantastic pub and met some truly magnificent people who we now take with us as friends.

“Our time in this difficult industry is coming to an end for us, but the Stackyard will live on.

“Our personal circumstances have changed, and we feel after 20 years in this industry we have served our time.”

The family stressed they are not stepping away immediately, as they want to ensure the “right people” are found to take over the popular pub.

The statement added: “We are not walking away, and this process can take up to a year whilst Stonegate find the right people for the next chapter of the Stackyard.

“It’s very much business as usual until that time so please carry on supporting us and we will continue to offer great food and service for the rest of our tenure.

“As you can appreciate it has been an extremely difficult decision for us to make as we have not only us to consider but our fantastic staff/family/friends.

“This decision has not been made lightly, and we feel someone with more time and new passion will keep this great pub thriving.”

The pub reassured customers that future bookings will not be affected, as they “aren’t going anywhere” just yet.

The owners also thanked their longstanding customers for their support over the past decade.

It said: “Finally, I would like to thank from the bottom of our hearts all our great customers old and new who have supported us on our journey and will continue to until the right person steps in.

“From us for now it’s business as usual and if anyone would like to get further info on this great pub its Stonegate who needs to discuss things.

“Again, from the bottom of our hearts, thank you.

“The Quinns.”

Following the announcement on Facebook, the owners have received an influx of love and support from customers.

One person said: “You’ll all be massively missed, a team and pub that’s been there for so long and done an amazing job. Thanks for all the beautiful food, drinks, laughs & smiles.”

While another person commented: “We will certainly miss you and the fabulous staff that always look after us.”