The Half Moon, a 16th-century Grade II listed pub in Kirdford, West Sussex, has temporarily closed its doors after staff reported facing verbal and physical abuse from customers. Owned by former model and television personality Jodie Kidd, the establishment announced a three-day closure from Monday through Wednesday, with plans to reopen on Thursday, September 25. The decision comes amid what the pub described as a recent spate of incidents where team members were subjected to unacceptable behavior.

In a statement posted on social media platforms including Instagram and Facebook, The Half Moon emphasized its commitment to creating a welcoming environment. "We've worked hard to create more than just a pub—we've built a home. A place for people to come together, enjoy good times, and make memories," the statement read. It expressed sadness over the abuse faced by staff in recent weeks, reminding patrons that behind the operation is a human team dedicated to their work.

The closure provides staff with what the pub called a "well-deserved short break" to "relax and recharge." Management highlighted the relentless nature of running an independent business, noting that the team works seven days a week driven by "passion, love, and integrity." They appealed for respect from customers, urging any complaints to be communicated in a "calm, constructive, and polite way" to maintain a positive community atmosphere.

The Half Moon has garnered praise in recent days, having been named one of the best celebrity-run pubs in the UK by food writer Tom Parker Bowles. In a Daily Mail article, he described it as "a proper pub—the sort you'd want to spend a few hours in," citing its historic features like stone floors, wooden beams, and a cozy fire. Kidd, who purchased the pub in 2017, has run it for eight years, earning accolades for maintaining its traditional charm while fostering a community-focused space.

Police in Newry are investigating a violent altercation that occurred outside the Buttercrane Shopping Centre on Francis Street on Saturday evening. The incident, which involved a group of young males, took place at approximately 5:40 pm on October 18, prompting emergency services to respond to the scene.

Three teenagers were arrested in connection with the disturbance, including two 17-year-olds and one 16-year-old. Law enforcement officials confirmed the arrests were made on suspicion of multiple offenses, including attempted grievous bodily harm with intent, assault occasioning actual bodily harm, and possession of an offensive weapon.

Two of the detained males, aged 16 and 17, have been released on bail pending further police inquiries, while the other 17-year-old was released unconditionally. The Police Service of Northern Ireland continues to investigate the circumstances surrounding the altercation that began at the shopping center and continued onto the adjacent street.

Authorities are particularly concerned about a male youth believed to have been assaulted during the incident who left the scene before officers arrived. Inspector Ritchie stated that police have concerns for the individual's wellbeing and are urging him to come forward. Witnesses or anyone with dash-cam or CCTV footage are asked to contact Ardmore police station quoting reference number 1120 of 18/10/25.