The future of a pub which has served the community since 1830 has been thrown into doubt after the company which owns it entered administration.

Travellers Friend in High Road, Woodford Green, will stay open for the foreseeable future, but other pubs run by Bramwell Pub and Bars Limited have already closed.

The company, which owns 185 pubs across the UK, has blamed cashflow problems arising from the 'challenging economic environment' for the move.

It is reported the limited company incurred costs of £115million to settle debts last year.

Clive Foulds, 63, of Chingford Lane in Woodford Green, has been a regular punter at the pub for 40 years.

"It's absolutely devastating. It is a friendly pub and has been part of the local community for centuries," he said.

"[Regulars] don't know what to do or where else to go, it's terribly sad to see the landlady in this situation.

"The Morris's have always been good to us, they keep the beer well, put food out and look after us." 

The Warren Wood pub, half-a-mile away in Epping New Road, is also owned by Bramwell Pub and Bars Limited.

Travellers Friend licensee Lucy Morris said she was unable to comment.

In a statement, administrator Zolfo Cooper said: “We will continue to trade the business while exploring all possible options for its future including a sale of the business and would like to thank the staff for their continued support and professionalism during this process.

“We would invite parties wishing to make an expression of interest in certain sites to contact Zolfo Cooper on the details below.”