A MYSTERY over the future of a popular Accrington pub has been creating a stir among local clubs and societies.

The King Street Tavern is heading for change as the current licensee has left for sunnier climes.

David Mancini, 43, left the pub yesterday after 18 months to begin a new life in Cyprus with his pregnant wife Emma and son Kye.

It is understood all events booked at the pub have been cancelled because of the uncertainty.

Owners Punch Taverns said it is not being sold but no concrete decisions over the new lease have been made.

Many organisations including the Accrington and District Blind Society, Slimming World and the Accrington Motorcycle Club have had to find new venues for their events.

The motorcycle club has switched its Halloween "Fright Night'' to Accrington Town Hall on Saturday 27 October at 8pm.

And the blind society's annual quiz has been moved to the Brooks Club at 8pm on Tuesday 9 October.

A spokesperson for Punch Taverns said: "The existing leaseholder is leaving the business this week, which is why it is not possible to accommodate function room bookings made for after this point.

"We are arranging for someone to take over immediately on a temporary basis so that the business doesn't have to close.

"We can then concentrate on marketing the lease and trying to find a new operator who can run the King Street Pub Company permanently."

Rumours have been circulating the town that the pub will become an Indian restaurant but Punch Taverns said that at this stage it was just one proposal.