HE is the colourful character that many in Lymington have known for years.

But now Rob Smith, manager of the popular The Haven Bar and Bistro, has been told to leave the premises by his landlord.

The entrepreneur, who in the last three decades has run a number of restaurants in the town, has had his lease at the Lymington Yacht Club Haven terminated.

It is not yet known why the action was taken, but Yachts Haven Group, which owns the marina, has confirmed that Mr Smith’s lease has not been up for renewal.

Mr Smith has since spoken publicly about his “shock” over the decision, but the Daily Echo was unable to contact him.

Nevertheless, over the years, the popular quayside bar – which had been backed by popular Radio 2 DJ Chris Evans – has been at the centre of controversy.

Locals had argued that the bistro’s use as a bar resulted in anti-social behaviour and noise spilling out onto the streets late at night. In 2013, 10 years after the business first opened, Mr Smith found his licence in jeopardy; police demanded New Forest District Council take action against him after the manager was found drunk on the premises during a check following an anonymous tip-off.

Police also carried out a test using two 17-year-olds who attempted to buy alcohol from The Haven – they were both served without ID being checked.

However, Mr Smith managed to retain his licence, but with additional restrictions.

Many in the town will also know Mr Smith from when he painted the High Street postbox gold in recognition of Sir Ben Ainslie’s Olympic success.

He was caught in the act by police and spent a night in a cell, although no charges were ever brought against him. In a statement by Yacht Havens Group, Mr Smith said: “It is with great regret that I confirm that after 14 fantastic years, we are parting company with Lymington Yacht Haven.

“I would like to take this opportunity to say thank you on behalf of all of the team for your wonderful custom and support over the years.

“We will continue ‘business as usual’ until a final transfer date is agreed with the owners of Lymington Yacht Haven.”

It has also been confirmed by the Yachts Haven Group that Darren Lewis, who has previously worked as food and beverage operations manager at The Mill at Gordleton, will be taking over from Mr Smith and will work with the existing team.