By Holly Morgan
A long-running bar on a Welsh high street has announced its closure, leaving its community saddened by the news. Slipping Jimmy’s opened on Newport 鈥檚 High Street over a decade ago with business owner Stephen Reynolds admitting he opened the pub on a bet with a friend who’d moved from Newport to west Wales. On Wednesday Mr Reynolds took to Facebook to announce his bar will close with immediate effect. He said: “With great sadness and immediate effect I have had to make the tough decision to close the business. Never miss a Newport story by subscribing to our newsletter here “It has become clear over the past few months with ever increasing costs, the business is no longer viable. “I have tried to keep the bar going but financially I am no longer able to do so. “I would like to thank all of the staff, both past and present, and customers that have made Slipping Jimmy’s what it is, and have shared with us what has been an incredible ten years. “I know all of you will miss the bar as much as I will. “I am absolutely heartbroken having to put up this post, but we had to do what was best for us and it is for good, personal reasons. “Thank you so much to my hard working staff, doormen and the customers that have supported us over the years you were truly amazing. “And thank you to all the bands singers duo’s that have played over the years and I’m so sorry that the ones that are booked in over the next few months we are sorry that you will no longer be playing here again . “There will be a lot of speculation over this post and many saying give it a few weeks it will open back up under a different name, if that happens then good to whoever wants to open back up as another bar, but I can honestly say it will not and never will be us.” Mr Reynolds’ statement was met with local people saying they are “absolutely gutted.” Darren May replied to the post saying: “Absolutely gutted. Had some great nights in there and some all day drinking sessions when the rugby was on. “We always had our annual meet up for Wales v England and my mates would come from London just to be there. “Good luck Steve and Sue for whatever the future holds. Such a sad day for Newport.” Alison Edwards added: “Gutted for you both, unless it’s what you both want. “Gutted for Newport – another great pub going. Thank you to you both for making it a fantastic pub. “Best of luck for your future, time to put your feet up and chill. I don’t go to town often but will miss you when I do.”