Pubs have left customers divided after banning customers under 21 from visiting.

The Bull Inn and the White Hart, both in Hockley, each took to social media on Saturday to announce they would no longer be serving customers under the age of 21.

The Bull Inn stated that the move was down to "recent incidents", while the White Hart stated that change in rules was down to "unforeseen circumstances".

In a social media statement, The Bull In said: "Due to recent incidents we have taken the decision to make the Bull Inn over 21s only.

“We apologize for any inconvenience this may cause.

“If you have a table booked with us for a meal, then you are still welcome, but drinking in the field will be over 21s only.

“Thank you for your understanding and we look forward to seeing you all soon.”

The Bull Inn’s post was quickly followed by a post from the nearby White Hart pub which said the decision was due to “unforeseen circumstances in the area” but was "subject to change".

The White Hart said: "Due to unforeseen circumstances in the area in last couple of days.

"The White Hart will be adopting a strict over 21 years of age policy for the foreseeable future.

“This could be subject to change but will be enforced until then.”

The decision to ban under 21s has got mixed reactions from residents.

Echo reader Sharon Lynn Read, who disagrees with the move said: "There are many 'law-abiding' young adults that will now miss out.

"Individual’s behaviour needs to be managed individually not collectively as a demographic age cohort."

Beck Beckwith added: “I live next to The Bull and I’m happy to support the business reducing problems.

“People fail to understand that publicans have a duty to protect both their business and the community. If they feel an age restriction would reduce problems, then I support that.

"It’s their name over the door and their premises to decide whether to decline service to protect their livelihood, customers and community."