Drinkers in Abingdon have been reacting to the sudden closure of one of the town's newest bars - The Old Chemist Smokehouse.

It emerged yesterday that the bar in High Street, which opened at Easter, has been forced to close suddenly after two key managers walked out.

The owners have admitted it has been a 'disappointing start' and promised a transformation of the bar once it reopens.

READ AGAIN: Old Chemist gin bar shuts after managers walk out

Co-owner Terry Milne added they had no choice but to close until August 23 when they will reopen.Oxford Mail:

He said the enforced break would give them the opportunity for finishing touches to the refurbishment.

While some drinkers said they were saddened by the temporary loss of the gin bar, others were not so complimentary.

There has been plenty of reaction on oxfordmail.co.uk and on Facebook.

Oxford Mail:

Oxford Mail reader CaptSass claimed: "A gin bar that none of the staff knew how to make a gin and tonic, some of the worst cocktails I've ever had and the "smoke house" food was burgers and hot dogs. Abingdon won't be missing it.”

READ AGAIN: Gin bar and chemist to open at former chemist shop

On Facebook Louise Wood posted: "I had so many hopes for this place, but it's not a gin bar, nor a smoke house 🙄."

Lesley Hillier added: "Shame has great potential with the right management."

Mr Milne said the bar would reopen on August 23 after new staff had been hired.

Netting has been installed in the yard area at the back of the bar to control a pigeon infestation problem.

Mr Milne said: "It's been a disappointing start but when we reopen it will be a transformation.

"There will be great food, great gins and background music.

"We are also bringing in a senior consultant who is a top chef."