01-May-2011
CAMRA WHAT'S BREWING - The Only Way is Essex for Pubs
Pub is The Hub has strengthened its operation in Essex with the launch of a rural pubs iniatitive in the county.
The organisation has launched Local Community Services Champions, aimed at encouraging pubs to become involved in the activities of their communities. The move comes as the organisations founder Prince Charles warns the closure of village pubs will severely damage rural life.
Speaking at a conference on tourism, the Prince said if people continue to shun rural pubs and crafts, it will be akin to “pulling threads from the delicate tapestry” of rural life.
Pub is The Hub aims to support rural pubs at the heart of their communities and to benefit local people through the provision of essential community services and facilities.
In Essex, Pub is The Hub with the help of the Big Lottery Fund is working closely with councillors and other organisations to bring together communities closer together. Pub is The Hub Chief Executive John Longden said he was looking to work with licensees in rural Essex pubs interested in developing their role in the community.
“Whether it is a lunch club for elderly people, a small shop selling local vegetables and other products, a room for community use and activities during the day or to provide a broadband hot-spot and offer community ICT facilities and training, there are a number of ways that rural pubs can become a hub for the community”, he said. Longden added similar schemes are on the cards in Lincolnshire, Cornwall and Yorkshire.
One of the first pubs to take part in the scheme is The Chequers in Great Tey. Licensees Terry Hunters and Natalie Burkett have opened a village shop in their pub with the support of the village, the Greene King Brewery and a grant from Essex County Council.
See original story in CAMRA Whats Brewing May 2011
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