Morrissey sued for £250,000 over failed pub venture

Licensee and actor Neil Morrissey is being sued by the Bank of Scotland for £250,000 after his purchase of a pub once frequented by the poet Dylan Thomas ended in administration.

A writ lodged at the High Court in London accuses Morrissey of owing £250,000, plus further interest payments. The outstanding sum is alleged to be part of a guarantee on an earlier loan of £3.6million to Morrissey's company Hurst House Laugharne Ltd which is now in liquidation.

The writ concerns a business venture involving three properties in Laugharne, Carmarthenshire — including Thomas's favourite hostelry, the New Three Mariners. Last year HHL went into administration.

The star's publicist said he had "no comment to make about the writ at this time".

Morrissey is also joint owner of Ye Olde Punch Bowl Inn at Marton-cum-Grafton, North Yorkshire, with Richard Fox under a separate business.

The pair are seeking fresh investment for their brewery and pub business after spending more than expected on their pub.