A much-loved Royston bar and restaurant has closed down without warning – sending shockwaves through the community.

Royston Crow: Jason Todd was the manager of Ad Hoc in Royston, which has now closed.Jason Todd was the manager of Ad Hoc in Royston, which has now closed. (Image: Archant)

Ad Hoc Bar & Kitchen – which opened in 2012 at The Old Court House in Fish Hill – has long been a thriving hotspot in town, attracting those wanting cocktails and good food.

However, on Saturday, September 9, the Crow understands staff announced it would be their last night trading, and the business closed that weekend.

Members of the community took to Facebook to express their shock at the closure. One person said: “If this is true I am genuinely devastated!” and another said: “More bad news for Royston.”

There was also concern about vouchers and parties booked. “Maybe someone from Ad Hoc could do the decent thing and let the people know about their money,” another comment read.

Ad Hoc was behind Royston’s biggest music event, Summer Soul to the Square, which was scrapped unexpectedly back in July.

Summer Soul had its licence revoked by North Herts District Council in 2016 after complaints of anti-social behaviour, but it was reinstated earlier this year – on the conditions that it took place on the August bank holiday weekend instead of in July, and moved to Angel Pavement.

However, just weeks before the event it was called off, and at the time Ad Hoc manager Jason Todd told the Crow: “The hard work is all but lost and will allow us more time and a greater budget to create an even better event next year with more space, entertainment and refreshments.” He thanked the community for their support and “looked forward to a bigger return next year”.

Ad Hoc was also due to be part of this weekend’s Royston Arts Festival organised by Creative Royston.

Chair Kirsten Grimmer said: “The news that Ad Hoc would not be opening its door again sent waves of panic through the committee as they not only featured as a returning venue for MusicFest, but were due to supply a bar for our community arts event and ceilidh in Priory Gardens.

“We are delighted that Banyers House has stepped up at the last minute due to unforeseen circumstances. The schedule has been amended to include all confirmed musicians in the nine venues.”

The Crow has contacted Mr Todd for comment, and is awaiting a response.