A traditional pub on Portland that closed suddenly at the weekend is to be turned into flats.

Landlord of The Clifton Hotel, Fiona Rodriguez, made the surprise announcement at last orders on Sunday night, due to lack of trade.

The Clifton at Grove Road was known for its home cooked roasts on a Sunday, when the pub would be packed with regulars - many of whom would make the pilgrimage from Weymouth for their weekly fix.

However Mrs Rodriguez - who has had the pub for six and a half years along with husband Miguel - said that despite Sundays being busy, they saw very few customers the rest of the week.

"It's taken six months to reach this decision, but you can't get by with just one busy day", she said.

"I didn't want a fuss, so I made the announcement when I called last orders on Sunday evening.

"It's been a very tough decision - I feel sad but we'll keep in touch with lots of the regulars.

"We have no intention of leaving the island - I've lived on Portland for 18 years - we both love it here."

As reported previously, in December 2017 the owner of the building was granted planning permission to convert the Clifton into eight residential flats with a detached block of garages and a number of parking spaces.

However Mrs Rodriguez said they have had the support of their landlord, building owner Neil Charlton, in their fight to remain open, and wanted to quash any rumours about being kicked out.

"The last six months have been particularly quiet", she said.

"I think fewer people are using pubs in general - supermarkets always have offers on, and people are choosing to drink at home or in their gardens".

The couple are still living above the pub while they consider their options for the future. Miguel Rodriguez also has a full time job with Dorset Waste Partnership.

"For now I'm going to relax and look after my health", said Mrs Rodriguez, who suffers with fibromyalgia.

One of her favourite memories of the pub is hosting an 'exotic meat' evening - when regulars were treated to an unusual menu of fifteen different meats - including zebra, horse, crocodile and buffalo.

"I'd like to thank customers and staff for supporting us over the past six and a half years - you've been great", she added.