Is another Whitchurch pub at risk? Hopefully not.
The rural country town has lost several to developers in recent times, including The Railway, The Harvest Home, and The Red House, although the latter is currently subject of a Planning Appeal.
This week Red Oak Taverns, owners of the 17th-century King's Arms in Church Street have put the popular pub on the market to Let.
Tough times
Pubs have had one of the toughest times of late and many are suffering with increasing brewery costs, massive energy bill increases and and lease restrictions. It is not known why the King's Arms has been made available 'To Let', but if we are to retain these important amenities in our communities we must support them.
This is not just by visiting but also by lobbying government and councils to provide assistance and to recognise the importance of their local economic and social value.
Popular publicans
The King's Arms is a great pub with hard-working committed publicans who provide a real community welcome and serve Whitchurch well. Numerous events have been held including Live Music, Beer Festivals, Quizzes and food promotions. Terrific people.
They posted on their social media:
'We have decided after 5 years here that it is time to hand over the pub to someone new.
We are here until the end of August and will be smashing out the summer as always.
Thank you all for your support over the past 5 years and we wish whoever follows us here the best of success.'
We also wish them all the very best and hope that whoever takes on the pub continues to maintain the excellence service and fine reputation that has been built up for this fine community pub.
Red Oak Taverns are an independent pub company founded in 2011. They have around 180 pubs in the UK.
They say:
"As a pub company we will do all that we can to safeguard the future of each property as a pub. However, due to changes in local demand this is not always possible, and in such circumstances we will always explore the most suitable alternative for the community in question.
We hope Red Oak's plans of the King's Arms are that it remains a pub serving both the local people Whitchurch and those who visit the town.
But for now:
Let's all visit the pub, and raise our glasses with a vote of thanks to the publicans and staff of the King's Arms. Cheers.
