REGULARS of an under-threat York pub have hit out at plans to close it down.

As revealed on this website on Tuesday, the Tam O'Shanter, in Lawrence Street, could be shut to make way for more student accommodation.

The £10million plans from York-based developers S Harrison will see the former Lawrence Street Working Men's Club, located next door to the pub, transformed to build a 115-bed complex.

However, those who regularly drink there and use it to meet friends say the plans are unnecessary and will leave them without a local.

"There's student flats all over the place and we don't need another one," said Robert Rennison, 65, who used to live in a flat above the bar.

"Everything now caters for students but there's some good people in here."

Paul Brown, 53, works as a roofer nearby and often goes to the pub.

He added: "There's a lot of people who have come here for years and will have no where to go.

"I've been coming here for a couple of years and it's a nice pub with some friendly people. It doesn't need to be knocked down."

If the plans are approved, work would start immediately and the complex would be ready for students arriving in autumn 2017.

Jason Dawson, 43, of Hope Street, York, says the pub's closure would take away the good memories he has made from drinking there.

"I like coming here and it's got really good staff," he added.

"My best memories are coming here with friends and the music they have in here.

"I love the music and staff, and I don't know where else I will go."

Barman Dennis Hill, 70, a regular of 40 years, added: "There are a lot of regulars in here who enjoy a chat and all the friendly staff.

"All of this area has good pubs and it's cheap here compared to others."