READERS have reacted after a popular Carlisle bar announced it was to close permanently.

The Circle Bar, in Lowther Arcade, has joined scores of businesses in Carlisle that have failed to open again after a series of lockdowns.

In an online statement by the owners they said: “2020-21 has been an extremely hard year for many of us in the hospitality industry, and unfortunately after 19 years we have come to the unfortunate decision that Circle Bar will have to close permanently.

“We would like to thank all our brilliant customers through the years, coming in time and time again for our food, drinks, and atmosphere.

“Most importantly we’d like to thank our staff through the years, 19 years of your dedication and help to define Circle as a staple of Carlisle night life.

“Thank you so much for the many years of ongoing support.

“Circle Bar Family.”

Here’s what you thought:

Glenys Beaty said: “Such a shame my husband proposed to me there in 2005.”

Amy Claire Leigh said: “The first place we went for tea the day we moved to Carlisle.”

Ben Casson said: “Had a few good nights in there.”

Glenn Walker said: “Used to take my dog in there, staff were really nice.”

Lydia Binns posted: “So sad.”

Alan Cummings said: “Have been a few times, so sad it’s closed.”

Rachael McMillan said: “Liked this one.”

Hazel Robinson said: “Very sad.”

Bethanie Rose Taylorson said: “My first Zombie cocktail.”