One of the oldest pubs in the county could be lost to the drinking public after it was put up for sale.

After the last tenants left the “underperforming” Waggon and Horses in Kettering Road, Burton Latimer, pub company Charles Wells decided to put the business on the market.

It is estimated that the pub has been in the town since about the 17^th century, although its previous name was the Coach and Horses.

John Meads, from the Burton Latimer Heritage Society said, “In the parish records there is reference to the Coach and Horses in the 1600s and there’s no reason to believe it’s not the same pub.

“In 1708 it was used as lodging houses for people passing through the village and I daresay it dates back to before the 17^th century.”

Mr Meads said it was important the building be retained for the town’s heritage and added: “It will be a sad day if it ceases to be a pub.  You can’t run a pub if you haven’t got customers but it would be a pity to lose a building like that.

“It’s not listed so it is vulnerable.  It could be pulled down and used for housing.  It’s probably one of the oldest pubs in Burton Latimer.”

Derek Zanger, from Burton Latimer Town Council, said: “It would be good to see the building refurbished and kept as a pub or turned into private residence.

“The character of the building should remain the same.”

The pub is now boarded up after Charles Wells said it was “under performing”.

A spokesman for the company said:  “After the last tenants left we decided to use the opportunity to look at our options.

“We don’t believe it’s viable as a pub but if someone comes forward with a plan and we think it could work, we will look at it seriously.

“We are not in the business of closing pubs down but it depends on what offers we get.”