A POPULAR pub has divided opinion after deciding to ban customers under 21 from visiting.

The Bull Inn in Hockley announced today (April 17) they will no longer be serving customers under the age 21.

The pub said they were unable to comment but did say in social media post that the ban was in response to recent 'incidents'.

On social media, the pub said: "Due to recent incidents we have taken the decision to make the Bull Inn over 21's only.

"We apologize for any inconvenience this may cause.

"If you have a table booked with us for a meal then you are still welcome but drinking in the field will be over 21's only.

"Thank you for your understanding and we look forward to seeing you all soon."

The response from residents has been mixed with some feeling the pub is doing the right thing while others say the pub is stereotyping all under-21's.

One commenter, Kirsty Edwards said:" I don’t know the circumstances that lead to this decision and I do not condone such poor behaviour but it’s a shame that this group could not have been refused service, asked to leave, then barred.

"There are many decent individuals in this age group and it’s sad that the minority have once against ruined it for the majority."

However, another commenter, Carly Lee, says the ban is justified and claims a manager at the pub was attacked.

She added: "Some of these posts are ridiculous. I was at The Bull last night when a manager was attacked by a group of 'kids'.

"There was no need for it and it was awful to witness seeing that man, and his wife who was our lovely waitress, so shaken.

"There is no need for it and I think it’s a great decision to try and stop this happening.

"Well done guys and I hope everybody is ok today. There is no excuse for that behaviour."

The pub has maintained that, while under 21's are barred from their garden drinking area, families are allowed to attend their patio area if they have book a table.