Warwick pub manager says independent pubs and brewing industry 'will be completely decimated' without public support following tier announcement

The tier allocation means hospitality businesses, such as bars, pubs, cafes and restaurants are closed – but they can sell items by takeaway, click-and-collect, drive-through or delivery services
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The manager of a pub in Warwick has said that the independent pub industry 'will be completely decimated' if people do not continue to support them.

Yesterday (Thursday November 26) it was announced that all of Warwickshire will be placed in Tier 3 - the highest tier - for Coronavirus restrictions when the latest national lockdown ends next week.

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The tier allocation means hospitality businesses, such as bars, pubs, cafes and restaurants are closed – but they can sell items by takeaway, click-and-collect, drive-through or delivery services.

The Old Post Office pub in West Street in Warwick. Photo by The Old Post OfficeThe Old Post Office pub in West Street in Warwick. Photo by The Old Post Office
The Old Post Office pub in West Street in Warwick. Photo by The Old Post Office

Gemma Douglas manager at The Old Post Office pub in West Street, took to the pub's Facebook page this morning (Friday) to urge the public to show their support during the restrictions to help pubs and breweries survive.

She said: "I know many of us are finding ourselves with financial troubles from the loss of jobs and income, but please if you are able to, please use pubs takeaway services through these times.

"If you aren’t able to do so please consider sharing with people who you know may find the services useful.

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"We know you can buy beer slightly cheaper from the supermarket or buy cask ale direct from breweries, but please remember that supporting the pubs helps sustain both pubs and breweries now and in to the future.

"If we do not continue to support pubs through these restrictions we need to come to terms with the fact that the recently thriving independent pub and brewing industry will be completely decimated.

"Please do not assume the government is providing enough financial support to keep pubs going through this. They are not.

"We’ve muddled along until now, ever hopeful we would soon be trading fully again.

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"Publicans and hospitality staff can’t hang on through this indefinitely. The overheads and rent on pubs still need to be paid each month despite the lack of trade.

"I can’t impress enough the future of pubs really does hang in the balance. I’m already aware of fellow publicans who are certain they won’t come out of this.

"Please if you appreciate the value of pubs to communities and people’s mental well-being please grab some takeaway beer or treat yourself to a meal. "

In the post Gemma also said the team at the pub had been working on refurbishments to help create more space ahead of being able to reopen.

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Despite the reopening being postponed the team say they are preparing to launch their takeaway service again from next week.