Brexit held up the sale of a landmark pub but owners say they are now ready to move on.

The Castle pub, on Eastern Esplanade, in Southend, went on the market with Dedman Gray for £149,000 last summer.

Despite some initial offers it failed to sell as insecurity over Brexit hit the market.

Jolene Hills, 38, manager of the pub and daughter of licensee Janet Hills, said interest has revived in recent weeks and they are hopeful of a sale as they get ready for a new venture.

Miss Hills said: “It is still up for sale. We had a lot of interest but not from the right people. We’ve had quite a few views recently though.

“Brexit was an issue but hopefully things will get moving in the next few months.”

Miss Hills wouldn’t reveal the exact details of a new venture but she said: “It is along the lines of what we do now but a bit different. We hope to disclose that at the end of the month.”

The site offers ten hotel rooms and 19 parking spaces.

The family-run pub has always focussed on traditional English food and beer, and a popular Sunday carvery.

The family previously owned the Royal Hotel, in the High Street, and the former Esplanade pub in Western Esplanade.

The Castle is not the only well-known watering hole up for grabs.

The freehold for the Harry pub is also on the market for £675,000.

Dedman Gray is also marketing the distinctive detached property in London Road, Leigh.

Gerard Biagioni from Dedman Gray said: “The owner is retiring after 37 years. It’s a traditional pub.

“The restaurant closed some time ago after the operator left and the owner didn’t reopen it because he is not a restaurateur but there is scope. We have had a number of people looking in of regeneration and bring back food as a gastro pub.

“Brexit upset a lot of things but people seem more optimistic now.”