A POPULAR Truro pub has “closed temporarily” just months after a new landlord took the helm.

Owned by Punch Taverns, The Rising Sun on Mitchell Hill was taken over in January by landlord Pip Lovelock, who came with a lengthy experience of the Duchy’s tourism hospitality industry.

Fondly known as the “Riser”, the 200-year-old inn had gained a strong reputation under previous chef-patron Tom Hannon, who gave up his tenancy in August last year after a decade in post.

Punch Pubs & Co operations manager Chris Hunt said The Rising Sun had “closed temporarily due to short-term staffing challenges while the current publican attends to urgent personal matters”.

Mr Hunt added: “The pub is operating under a temporary agreement as we continue to seek a long-term partner, and we’re supportive of the work that has been done since January to rebuild the offer with the local community.

“We are working closely to reopen as soon as possible, and look forward to welcoming guests back in the near future.”