Use your pub or it may go warns group

DRINKERS in Rugby are being urged to use the town’s pubs this Christmas or face a future without them.

The stark message comes from Rugby’s branch of the Campaign for Real Ale (CAMRA) who are concerned the town has seen seven pubs close in the past 12 months.

It comes after CAMRA found The Windmill, North Street, The Engine, Pennington Street, The Seven Stars, James Street, The Merry Monk, Brownsover, The Three Cranes, Overslade Road, Walkabout, High Street and Bilton Social Club, Bilton Road, have all shut since last Christmas.

CAMRA spokesman Steve Heighton said: “The Christmas holiday period is a massive time for pubs as they, like many other shops, look to attract customers at peak times.

“If people do not use their local pub then these places will suffer, and with a national average of two pubs closing a day, Rugby pubs are at risk too.

“Since last Christmas there are at least seven pubs that are not open this Christmas. Despite all political parties promising to address the problem of supermarkets undercutting prices to safeguard the livelihoods of publicans and pubs, the Government has completely reneged on this.

“With the advertising of cheap lager and spirits on offer, supermarkets are threatening to close even more local pubs.

“Christmas and New Year is usually a time to spend time with family and friends down at the local pub and we hope the people of Rugby keep up these traditions at these special time.’’