A popular JD Wetherspoon pub in Newton Abbot was forced to close its doors unexpectedly on Boxing Day following an incident involving a customer.
Sudden Closure at The Richard Hopkins
The Richard Hopkins, a well-known Wetherspoons establishment on Queen Street, was shut to the public shortly before 1pm on Thursday, December 26, 2025. According to reports from local customers, staff asked everyone to leave the premises. One social media user stated that staff had "kicked everyone out," prompting confusion and a flurry of speculation online.
Speculation and Official Confirmation
In the immediate aftermath of the sudden closure, a range of unverified theories began to circulate among the community. These wild rumours included everything from the loss of a crucial kitchen appliance to an extraordinary claim that a customer had been bitten by an otter.
However, a spokesperson for JD Wetherspoon provided the official explanation later that day. They confirmed that the temporary closure was due to "an incident in the pub involving a customer." The company confirmed that the venue was able to reopen its doors at 5.30pm on the same day.
Swift Reopening After Afternoon Shutdown
The incident caused a disruption of several hours at the popular town centre pub on what is typically a busy festive period. The swift reopening will be welcomed by regulars and staff alike.
The spokesperson's statement provided clarity, putting an end to the online speculation and confirming the brief closure was linked directly to a customer-related matter. No further details regarding the nature of the incident or whether emergency services were involved have been disclosed at this time.
