A North East pub has been forced to shut its doors over Christmas after a car dramatically crashed through its wall - causing structural damage to the venue and creating a large hole in the side of the building. 

On Wednesday (December 21), The Smugglers Den, in Marske-by-the-Sea, shared a worrying update with its regulars, by posting online to say that they had been forced to make a tough decision and close the pub. 

After sharing images of the extensive damage, the pub highlighted that it wasn't safe to welcome customers or staff over the festive period, before sharing a hopeful message for the venue moving into 2023. 

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In the update released by The Smugglers Den, it said: "It saddens me to write this status but unfortunately we are going to have to close our doors at the worst possible time of year.

The Northern Echo: The damage caused to the pub. Picture: SMUGGLERS DENThe damage caused to the pub. Picture: SMUGGLERS DEN (Image: NORTHERN ECHO)

"Sadly, a car has crashed into our building and it is now not safe for us to welcome our staff or customers into the premises.

"We are working our hardest to have this fixed and will be back stronger and better in the new year.

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"We wish all of our customers a Merry Christmas and look forward to seeing you all in 2023."

Since opening, the pub has built up a reputation in Teesside for creating a quaint atmosphere, with the venue offering live music and impresses with its micro bar style.

And it has clearly impressed plenty of people that have visited after it racked up a 4.7-star rating out of 385 people online.