THE Monks' Retreat pub has been put on the market as owners JD Wetherspoon get rid of 45 venues throughout the country.

The Friar Street boozer will remain open as usual while a buyer is sought for the chain's first branch to open in Reading.

Staff's are jobs are not said to be at risk during the process.

Elsewhere in Berkshire the Diamond Tap in Newbury and the recently closed Greyhound in Maidenhead have also been put up for sale.

Wetherspoon spokesman Eddie Gershon said: "Wetherspoon has put The Monks' Retreat in Reading on the market.

"Our other pubs in the town are not affected.

"We appreciate that our loyal customers will be disappointed with the decision.

"Like other companies, Wetherspoon has to take commercial decisions, which while beneficial for the company, might not always be welcome by customers.

"The pub will remain trading as normal until or if it is sold.

"There will be no job losses as a result of the announcement."

One local, Kevin Tyrer, of central Reading, said he would be sad to see the place close down if the new buyers had a change of heart.

He added: "It has been part of the town for quite some years now.

"It would be shame if it did go. It's one of the nearest pubs to me and it's a nice place for a drink and friendly too."

What do you think? Would you miss The Monks' Retreat if its new owners changed it? Comment below or email news@readingchronicle.co.uk