The Bar Royal, on Dale Street, first closed in March when trouble flared during an under-age drinking raid. The boarded-up building then became a target for anti-social behaviour. Police said they did not expect it to reopen, and there were rumours it was to be turned into a curry house.

But owner Punch Taverns announced a new landlord had taken over in August, along with a refurbishment of the building.

But it was again boarded up this week, with pub furniture piled up outside the back.

The Express tried without success to contact its former landlord.

And Punch Taverns could not confirm why the pub had closed.

A spokesman said: “Our priority is to re-open the Royal in Ossett as soon as we possibly can.

“We are actively recruiting a new licensee to run this property for us and will work closely with them to help them build a successful, sustainable business.”

Police said they were not aware of any recent trouble at the pub.