A CAMPAIGN group has spoken of its disappointment following the “unexpected” closure of a Bradford city centre pub.

The Bradford Campaign for Real Ale (CAMRA) has spoken out after the sudden closure of the Shoulder of Mutton, on Kirkgate, earlier this month.

The building has been a pub since the early 19th century - a plaque outside from Bradford City Heritage reads: “This building is a typical early 19th-century public house, dating from 1825.”

The Shoulder of Mutton building has been a pub since 1825The Shoulder of Mutton building has been a pub since 1825 (Image: Newsquest)

The Shoulder of Mutton is owned by Tadcaster-based brewery Samuel Smith’s.

Kate Ahern, secretary for the Bradford branch of CAMRA said: "Bradford CAMRA branch is disappointed at the recent and unexpected closure, for no apparent reason, of yet another popular Sam Smiths pub."

“I think it’s unexpected rather than shock really.

“There’s a huge amount of history there. There’s a plaque outside which says so.

“It’s just sad for everyone who likes to go there.

“It’s a shame that any pub is closed, especially when it’s one that seemed viable.”

Josie Boothroyd, a committee member for Bradford CAMRA, added: “It closed suddenly but we don’t know the official reason why it shut.

“It’s a brilliant little pub and it’s been there for donkey’s years.”

The T&A has contacted Samuel Smith’s for a comment about the closure.