Rural Pubs Across Harborough Given Cash Boost

A total of £10,000 has been given to landlords of ten rural pubs across the Harborough District, to help them stay afloat as their doors stay closed because of the pandemic.

They are among the first to each receive one off payments of £1,000, after a special support scheme was launched by the County Council, thought to be the only one of its kind in the country.

90 pubs across Leicestershire have so far received money and just under 100 more applications are being processed.

The scheme, which is in addition to the government support payments, aims to keep people in jobs, maintain the role of the pub as a community hub and help them to diversify by providing extra services for residents.

Councillor Blake Pain, deputy county council leader, said: “I am delighted that so many landlords have come forward and we have been able to help these rural pubs which are vital hubs for villages.

“We know that the hospitality sector has been hit particularly hard during the pandemic and we felt it was important that they received our help. These remain difficult times and we will continue to offer support to our communities and small businesses.”

The scheme is backed by major trade body, the British Beer and Pub Association, which represents around 20,000 of the country’s pubs.

Emma McClarkin, Chief Executive of the British Beer & Pub Association, said: “I applaud Leicester County Council for delivering their additional financial support for rural pubs at such speed. Rest assured their innovative approach has provided a vital lifeline to local pubs who have been hanging by a thread. Other county councils and the Government should follow the leadership displayed by Leicester County Council in saving our pubs.”