One of Huddersfield’s best-known pubs shut its doors for the last time last night.
Varsity in Zetland Street closed after its parent company pulled the plug.
The closure meant 14 staff lost their jobs just two weeks before Christmas.
Varsity was owned by the Buckinghamshire-based Bramwell Pub Company which called in administrators in October.
Administrators shut around 70 of its 185 pubs and bars but allowed Huddersfield’s Varsity to continue to trade.
When no buyer was found, administrators shocked staff by shutting the doors.
Assistant manager Beth Bulmer, 18, whose dad Craig has managed the venue for three years, said: “Everyone is devastated.
“It’s a massive shock. We are a small team but very close.”
Administrators announced on Monday that last night would be the last.
Regulars partied until late into the night and Beth said: “It was really emotional.
“I can’t believe it’s over.”
Bramwell went into administration after the restructuring of its £160m debt pile failed.
Varsity is a big student venue being so close to Huddersfield University and Town fans also meet there on matchdays.
Head chef Danny Knapton, 30, single dad to Olivia, four, said: “It’s a bad time to lose your job just before Christmas but I suppose there’s never a right time.”
Regular Danny Spruce, 20, who was a supervisor at the pub for two years while at university and who took the pictures at the top of the page, said: “It’s so sad to see it go.
“This place has so many memories for so many people.”
Students Harry Cowen, 19, and Liam Brown, 18, were shocked at the closure.
“It’s the first stop on the student trail,” said Liam. “It’s a great place to start a night out.”
Did you go to the last night party at Varsity? Send us your pictures and memories to fiona.lumb@examiner.co.uk tweet us @examiner or find us on Facebook at Huddersfield Examiner .
