A pub near Bridgnorth which attracts diners from far and wide is to close at the end of the month with the loss of 16 jobs.

The Folly Inn, in Ackleton, will shut on August 28. Landlord Karl Hughes, 36, says he has been forced to call last orders due to rising rent imposed by Marston’s brewery.

The father-of-one claims his bills have increased since he took over in July 2009, wiping out profits.

He claims 40 dismayed regulars have e-mailed Marston’s urging the company to review the charge so the 72-cover pub restaurant can continue trading.

The venue had been closed for eight months when Mr Hughes took over but he says customers from Wolverhampton, Bridgnorth and Telford have returned to sample a menu of English favourites including cod and chips, steak and kidney pie and steaks.

However, as takings have soared, so has rent, he claims. He said: “My rent has quadrupled in two years, it’s absolutely unbelievable.”

Marston’s spokeswoman Kimberley Owen said: “We fully support all of our pubs, and through our retail agreements we provide a flexible solution for our tenants.

“Marston’s takes great care to ensure rents are set at a sustainable level. It is then the responsibility of the licensee to ensure overall profitability.”