Supporting our local pubs with Standard’s campaign

Last year, it was estimated that around 25 pubs were closing every week around the UK. Earlier this month, the Standard reported that Gainsborough’s thriving pubs were facing a fight for survival.

Local landlords blamed rocketing costs, dwindling customers, cheap supermarket booze and social changes, and said they were often struggling to keep their heads above water.

Now, The Standard has launched its new Support Our Pubs campaign, in a bid to rejuvenate the area’s wealth of public houses.

Each month we’re going to be putting the spotlight on the town’s best watering holes.

“Here are at the Standard, we pride ourselves on serving the community,” said editor Chris Burton.

“You can’t get much closer to the heart of the community than our local pubs - many of which have been here for decades, some even centuries.”

“There’s much more to running a pub than simply pouring a pint. Landlords, barmen, barmaids, waiters and waitresses go far beyond the call of duty to offer punters an excellent experience.”

He continued: “A good pub offers good service, a welcoming atmosphere and all of the hallmarks that make it something special and unlike anywhere else.”

“In short, a good pub makes you feel at home.”

Chris added: “This campaign is not about urging our readers to go and drink more - it’s simply about celebrating the great service that our pubs provide and the inspiring way that they provide a hub for the community and a strong social focal point.”

“These pubs are a great part of the fabric of history and tradition in our town. It would be nothing short of a tragedy if we were to lose any more of them. Support your local pub.”

Director of public affairs at the British Beer and Pub Association, David Wilson said he was fully behind the Standard’s campaign.

“This is a very important campaign,” he said. “It sends a message that the local community wants to keep much loved pubs open.”

“Each pub is unique and a special part of its local community. Outside of the home and family, pubs are the most important places that bring people together, and create much needed jobs.”

He continued: “The biggest issue is tax on beer, which has gone up 35 per cent since March 2008. But pubs are also trying to cope with additional red tape from government.”

David added: “Numbers are still falling, and if you no longer have a local within walking distance, a vital community hub is lost.”

n How do YOU feel about your local pub?

Are you from a pub that has a special event coming up that you’d like people to know about?

Have you lost your favourite place to meet friends and have a drink?

Maybe you know of a truly special pub that you think deserves more recognition?

Get in touch with us and let us know.