MYSTERY surrounds the closure of a newly refurbished pub on the outskirts of Chepstow.

The New Inn, on the A48 in Pwllmeyric, shut down last month, but owners Punch Taverns have not revealed why.

A source said he sawa van being loaded up with belongings, and a sign was put up saying the pub is “temporarily closed but will be re-opened later”.

The Argus asked the pub group when the New Inn was closed and why, but it was unable to confirm either. Aspokeswoman said its future had not been decided upon.

“The New Inn is currently closed and we apologise for any inconvenience caused.

We are reviewing all options around the site, including marketing the pub for sale,” she said.

The source said its former regulars had moved on to the Millers Arms in Mathern as there’s “nowhere else to go” nearby.

The pub’s website describes it as “newly refurbished” and committed to “delivering a great customer experience”.

Chepstow resident John Hutchinson, Gwent Campaign for Real Ale (CAMRA) press officer, said: “The closure of the New Inn is very worrying for local people.

“We are concerned it could be a long-term problem that may affect other smaller pubs in this area.”

He said on the whole Chepstow has bucked the national trend of pubs closing, as two new ones have opened, including the Two Rivers, which has proved popular.

Gwent CAMRA figures showof the 544 pubs in business at the start of 2012, seven have closed permanently, while another 13 are closed but could re-open.

“A lot of licensees are working wonders against an exceptionally difficult financial background,” said Mr Hutchinson.