A PUB has been forced to leave a note telling punters it’s closing down as the owners can’t afford to pay their energy bills.
Co-owners Gemma Williams and Anthony Gillham made the ‘difficult’ decision to shut The New Malton Pub in North Yorkshire.
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Gemma said: “Obviously it was a very difficult decision, not one that was made lightly.
“We had been discussing between ourselves for months that it might be necessary and ultimately we made the decision because energy companies are trying to make us commit to longer contracts than we would like at a high rate, and because of what feels like a complete lack of action from the government.”
A note was posted in the window of the pub to inform customers that the pub had been closed.
The co-owners were receiving rates relief from the government but no other support.
They believe the government should support the hospitality industry by significantly reducing VAT as soon as possible.
Gemma said: “20 per cent VAT is crippling for our industry.
“We’re not looking for handouts, just a fair chance to bounce back from Covid, and now the cost of living crisis.”
Fortunately, the two of them own another premise called Omni Malton, meaning their staff members have somewhere to work temporarily.
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“Ultimately, we felt it was better to be in control of our costs rather than have terrifying surprise bills in the new year”, said Gemma.
They are hoping to reopen as soon as possible but have said this depends on immediate and appropriate action from the government.
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