A scheme to help rural Herefordshire pubs to branch out into new services is to be launched in November in partnership with Herefordshire Council.
Pub is The Hub will launch its Local Community Services Champions initiative, on 11th November from 10.30am at the Lady Emily Community Hall in Tarrington.
There, it aims showcase advice, support and, if appropriate, funding for pub operators and owners who are considering a diversification scheme. Schemes of this type include providing post offices, shops, libraries, internet cafes, allotment schemes, school dinners, lunch clubs for the elderly, cash point machines, IT training and meeting rooms.
Representatives from two Herefordshire pubs, The New Harp Inn, Hoarwithy and The Bells Inn, Almeley will be there to explain how they went about diversifying their businesses by introducing village shops and how this has improved the relationship that they enjoy with their communities.
Pub is The Hub, a not-for-profit organisation founded in 2001 by HRH the Prince of Wales, encourages local authorities, communities, licensees, pub owners and breweries to work together to support, retain and locate services within rural pubs. Pub is The Hub assists with guidance on availability of project funding, and having a thorough understanding of the pub business, is able to advise on the best way to progress with each individual project.
John Longden, Chief Executive from Pub is The Hub said: “We are opening up the event to any licensees and pub owners who are considering the option of diversification – and even those who have never thought of it before. We welcome anyone who wants to know more and fancies having a chat with us.”
Anyone who would like to attend the meeting in Tarrington (HR1 4EX) can telephone 01423 546165 to reserve a place.